American record holder Emily Sisson to make Boston Marathon debut
What to know about the 2026 Boston Marathon, including Emily Sisson's debut, top contenders, start times and how to watch.
The fastest female marathon runner in North America is finally going to run in the most famous marathon of them all. Emily Sisson , a two-time Olympian and the American record holder in the marathon, is set to compete in the 2026 Boston Marathon for the first time. Event organizers officially announced in December that the 34-year old would be in the field when the 130th edition of this race takes place on April 20.
"The Boston Marathon has been a race I’ve looked forward to competing in for many years," Sisson said, according to the race's official website. "I’m ready to take on the challenging course and be part of one of the legendary races in our sport. " Sisson's inclusion means this will be the first Boston Marathon since since 1978 – and only the third time ever – both the men’s and women’s American record holders will start the race.
Connor Mantz, a 2024 Olympian who finished fourth in last year's Boston Marathon, is also slated to be in the men's field later this month. Sisson set the American record at the 2022 Chicago Marathon when she finished in a time of 2:18:29. Here's what else to know about the 2026 Boston Marathon: IN THE NEWS: What Prince William wrote Lindsey Vonn after Olympics crash When is the 2026 Boston Marathon?
The 2026 Boston Marathon is scheduled to take place on Monday, April 20 as part of the city's annual Patriots Day festivities. Boston Marathon start times 2026 6 a. m.