Runners to Watch in the Boston Marathon

Boston Marathon weekend always brings a mix of world-class competition, comeback stories, local favorites, and familiar faces that make the race feel bigger than just 26.2 miles. The 2026 edition is no different. From Olympic-level American fields to creators shaping the running conversation, and even a few recognizable names from outside the sport, there's plenty to watch this year.

Below is a breakdown of the athletes and personalities to keep an eye on throughout race day and marathon weekend.

Familiar Faces on the Course

Boston Marathon weekend always brings back a few recognizable names — athletes and personalities who feel deeply tied to the race, even if they're not chasing a podium finish.

One of those is former Boston Bruins defenseman Zdeno Chára, who has become a regular presence in the endurance world. Having completed multiple marathons, including Boston, he returns as a familiar figure on the course, bringing a steady, disciplined approach that mirrors his NHL career.

Also back in Boston is 2018 champion Des Linden. While she won't be racing competitively this year, she'll be pacing her husband on the course. Even in a different role, Linden remains one of the most beloved figures in Boston Marathon history, and her presence adds another layer of connection for longtime fans.

Also returning to the course is Matt James, the former Bachelor star turned marathoner who has become one of the race's beloved presences. James has run Boston multiple times, even claiming to set a world record in 2025 for the most hugs given while running a marathon. He's back again this year, and if history is any guide, expect him to make a lot of people smile along the way.

Creators & Local Runners to Watch

For many spectators, the most compelling stories come from runners and creators sharing the experience in real time.

One of the most recognizable voices in the Boston running scene is Laura Green. With over 200K followers, she's built a platform around funny, honest, and deeply relatable running content. Having run Boston before, she captures marathon weekend in a way that resonates with both serious runners and casual fans.

Also racing this year is Amanda McGoldrick, co-founder of Major Miles Run Club. Representing the city's booming run club culture, she'll be bringing a strong community presence to the course.

Another creator to watch is Lexie Pritchard, who shares lifestyle and fitness content with a growing audience. She also has a strong Boston sports connection as the sister of Celtics guard Peyton Pritchard, adding an extra layer of local interest as she takes on marathon weekend from a closely tied perspective.

Colin Powell is co-founder of RITUAL, which has become increasingly visible in Boston's running and wellness community. He'll be running in support of the Cam Neely Foundation.

Another Boston-area creator to watch is Alyssa Pannozzi, who brings serious momentum into Boston. She's part of Revd and recently completed all six World Marathon Majors — she even ran the Paris Marathon just one week prior.

Elizabeth Pehota is a Boston sports reporter, avid marathoner, and Guinness World Record holder for the fastest female with Multiple Sclerosis to complete a marathon. She's run Boston multiple times and is one of the city's most passionate advocates for running and chronic illness awareness. With 45K followers and a deeply personal story, her race day content always resonates.

Dan Distefano is a Boston-based fitness instructor and lifestyle creator deeply embedded in the city's wellness scene. With ties to several local brands and communities including classes at Barry's and LifeTime, he brings an authentic, on-the-ground perspective to marathon weekend that's worth following in real time.

Elite Americans to Watch

Beyond the local stories, this year's elite American field is one of the deepest Boston has seen in recent years, particularly on the women's side.

Women

Leading the charge is Emily Sisson, the American record holder in the marathon. She's joined by fellow Olympians Fiona O'Keeffe and Dakotah Popehn, making this one of the strongest U.S. women's fields ever assembled in Boston.

The depth continues with Keira D'Amato, last year's top American Jess McClain, and veteran standout Sara Hall.

Rounding out the field are Annie Frisbie, Susanna Sullivan, and Erika Kemp, all strong contenders for top finishes.

Men

On the men's side, Clayton Young enters as a top American contender after finishing seventh in Boston last year with a personal best.

Rising talent Alex Maier is also generating buzz after an impressive marathon debut and a near-record half marathon performance earlier this year.

Also watch for Zouhair Talbi, Biya Simbassa, and Ryan Ford, all of whom have shown the ability to compete at a high level.

Veteran Galen Rupp brings experience as a four-time Olympian, while Canada's Rory Linkletter returns after a strong performance in Boston last year.

International

The 2026 Boston Marathon also features a strong international championship field, led by defending champions John Korir (men's race) and Sharon Lokedi (women's race), both from Kenya and returning as top favorites to win again.

Wheelchair Division

In the men's wheelchair division, Swiss athlete Marcel Hug is the name to know. An eight-time Boston champion and one of the most dominant wheelchair racers in the world, Hug returns to defend his title yet again. At this point, watching him race down Boylston Street is one of the great traditions of marathon weekend.

From world champions to Boston locals and viral running creators, this year's race has no shortage of storylines worth following. Whether you're planted on the course or watching from your phone, keep this list handy — you'll want to know these names when they come up.

A big thank you to Fit Scene's run scene insider Margot Murphy for helping us put this together. 🙌