Diluting the Prestige: Adding a 7th World Major Marathon

Sydney Marathon Joins the World Marathon Majors: A Turning Point for Runners

The Sydney Marathon’s addition to the prestigious World Marathon Majors (WMM) series has sparked excitement and debate among the global running community. For decades, the original six WMM races—Boston, Berlin, Chicago, London, New York City, and Tokyo—represented the pinnacle of marathon running. Completing all six and earning the coveted Six Star Medal symbolized a rare and elite accomplishment, showcasing not only athletic dedication but also a passion for travel and culture. However, the inclusion of a seventh race changes the landscape, raising questions about the allure and accessibility of pursuing the expanded WMM series.

Diluting the Prestige

One major concern is the potential dilution of the Six Star Medal’s prestige. With fewer than 10,000 finishers globally, completing the original six races was a badge of exclusivity. Adding Sydney—and potentially other marathons in the future—risks diminishing the unique status of this achievement. What once was an elite accomplishment may feel less special as the WMM series expands.

Sydney is undoubtedly a worthy marathon, offering runners a scenic course featuring landmarks like the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge. Its inclusion also highlights the growing prominence of the Asia-Pacific region in the global running scene. However, the financial and logistical hurdles of traveling to Australia may make the expanded WMM series feel unattainable for many runners, especially those already stretched by the demands of completing the original six races.

Shifting Focus to Local and Other City Marathons

The added difficulty of completing the now-seven-star series could prompt runners to reevaluate their goals, potentially boosting participation in local and non-WMM marathons. Cities like Amsterdam, Paris, Cape Town, and Vienna offer world-class marathons with unique character and challenges, often at a fraction of the cost. Similarly, smaller, community-focused marathons provide meaningful experiences for runners seeking camaraderie and personal achievement.

This shift in focus could benefit the broader running community, fostering a renewed appreciation for the diversity of marathon events worldwide. Runners may turn away from the rigid WMM checklist to pursue personal goals, such as setting a new personal best, qualifying for Boston, or completing marathons in every state or country.

A Broader Opportunity

While concerns about dilution and accessibility are valid, Sydney’s inclusion also brings positive changes. It provides greater representation for the Southern Hemisphere and the Asia-Pacific region, giving Australian runners easier access to the WMM series and showcasing the country’s vibrant running culture. It may also attract new runners inspired by the excitement of participating in a WMM race.

The Path Forward

Sydney’s addition marks a turning point in the marathon world. For some, it’s a thrilling new challenge; for others, it signals a need to redefine success in running. Whether pursuing WMM stars, exploring local marathons, or chasing personal goals, one thing remains certain: The marathon’s spirit of resilience and inspiration endures, no matter where the journey leads.