Running USA Launches the 2024 Top Races Report, Celebrating a Historic Year for Running

January 7, 2025

January 7, 2025 /ENDURANCE SPORTSWIRE/ – Running USA is proud to announce the release of its highly anticipated 2024 Top Races Report, showcasing a banner year for the sport of running. The world record for the largest marathon was shattered not once, but twice this year—first in Berlin and then in New York City. With over 56,000 finishers in November, the TCS New York City Marathon not only reclaimed its title as the largest marathon in the world but also became the largest race of any distance in the United States.

This surge in participation reflects a renewed passion for running, as events across the country are drawing record-breaking numbers of participants, volunteers, and spectators. The 2024 Top Races Report dives into this phenomenon, highlighting the races that are leading the charge and the trends that are reshaping the industry. Download the report – free for all Running USA members – here.

“As race organizers continue to invest in and innovate the participant experience, running events are becoming must-attend occasions,” said Jay Holder, Executive Director of Running USA. “The numbers are clear: running is back. Participation levels are mirroring or surpassing those seen in 2019, and the momentum shows no signs of slowing.”

The 2024 Top Races Report is the most comprehensive edition ever produced by Running USA, listing the top 100 overall events, the top 100 races by distance, and the top 10 races in each state. Notable findings include:

• 10 races in 2024 boasted more than 25,000 finishers.
• The 25 largest races represent 15 different states, underscoring running’s nationwide appeal.
• The 5K remains the most popular entry point to the sport, but over one-third of the top 100 races were half marathons, reflecting a growing appetite for longer distances.

“Whether your race or your favorite race made this year’s report or not, the remarkable growth and enthusiasm for running in 2024 are thanks to the entire community,” said Holder. “From race organizers to participants, volunteers to fans, this collective effort is what keeps our sport thriving.”

Find more details on the 2024 Top Races Report and explore the full list of featured events here.

About Running USA

Running USA is a non-profit that serves as the leading trade organization for the running industry in North America and hosts the nation’s preeminent industry conference annually. Through education, research, best practices and data, Running USA is committed to supporting and facilitating growth, diversification and excitement in running communities everywhere. We promote networking and idea-sharing between event organizers, sponsors, vendors and athletes. Running USA is a member of a global alliance of organizations focused on the betterment of the global running community including the Running Industry Alliance and European Athletics. For more information, visit runningusa.org.