2015 Boston Marathon Field Size Increased To 30,000; Third-Largest Ever

The Boston Athletic Association announced Thursday that the field size for the 2015 Boston Marathon would be increased to 30,000 runners, the third-largest in the race’s history.

“As we look forward to 2015, our goal is to accommodate as many participants as possible in the Boston Marathon, while maintaining the exceptional race experience and unique characteristics that make this event special,” said Tom Grilk, BAA executive director, via Boston.com. “Our field size limit allows us to meet that goal, and our registration process recognizes the commitment needed to qualify and gain entry into the Boston Marathon.”

The largest field was for the marathon’s centennial in 1996, which had 38,708 runners. This year’s Boston Marathon was the second largest at 35,671 runners. The field size was previously maintained around 27,000.

Registration for the 2015 Boston Marathon begins at 10 a.m. ET on Sept. 8.

Photo via Greg M. Cooper/USA TODAY Sports Images