New York runners criticise rising fees and tougher marathon entry rules
New York Road Runners is facing criticism that higher fees and changes to its 9+1 entry programme are making the New York City Marathon harder for ordinary local runners to access. The debate comes as demand for places rises and the race marks 50 years on its five-borough course.
The 9+1 programme requires runners to complete nine qualifying races and volunteer at one qualifying event, while keeping an NYRR membership active through December 2026, costing $63.45 a year. Marathon entry costs $269.66 for members and $333.11 for non-members; applications rose from 185,000 in 2020 to more than 240,000 this year, with record numbers rejected. NYRR chief executive Rob Simmelkjaer says the non-profit prioritises accessibility over maximising revenue, while some runners say fees and race sell-outs make participation increasingly difficult.
In short
- Runners say New York Marathon costs are pricing people out.
- The 9+1 programme requires nine races and one volunteer event.
- Applications exceeded 240,000 as NYRR defended its approach.
Steelman: both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
As demand has climbed sharply, NYRR can argue that limited places require clear, consistent entry rules and that the 9+1 programme rewards sustained participation and volunteering. The fees help fund the races and the organisation’s work, while its non-profit status and stated focus on accessibility suggest it is balancing access with the practical costs of staging a major event.
The case against
Local runners can argue that rising membership and entry fees, alongside races that sell out, make the 9+1 route increasingly difficult for people with ordinary incomes or limited time. Because the programme is presented as a way for local runners to earn access, higher costs and tougher chances of completing it may weaken that promise and favour those with greater financial and scheduling flexibility.
Explained simply
The New York City Marathon is an annual race that takes runners through all five boroughs of New York City. New York Road Runners, a non-profit organisation, organises the marathon and many other races in the city.
One way local runners can qualify for marathon entry is through the 9+1 programme: they complete nine eligible races and volunteer at one, while maintaining NYRR membership. Places are also available through other routes, but demand for entry is high.
The debate touches on how a major sporting event can remain open to local runners as its popularity grows. NYRR sets the membership, race and entry fees, while runners must weigh the cost and time needed to qualify.
Read the full article at the source →
Originally published by Daily Mail as “New York City Marathon runners slam organizers for ‘money grab’ after controversial rule change”.