The year 2017 was a landmark period for the global running community. From elite athletes attempting to break the two-hour barrier to thousands of first-time finishers crossing local finish lines, the marathon landscape reached new heights of popularity and performance. Reviewing the top-rated marathons of 2017 provides runners with a historical perspective on course difficulty, event organization, and the enduring appeal of specific races.
Why 2017 Was a Significant Year for Running
In 2017, the marathon world saw a surge in participation and a renewed interest in performance limits. This was the year of the Breaking2 project, which, although not a sanctioned race, brought global attention to the technical aspects of marathon running. This heightened interest trickled down to major city races, making 2017 one of the most competitive years for lottery entries and qualifying times.
For those researching historical race data, 2017 stands out because many courses saw record-breaking weather conditions or significant course changes that still impact how runners view those races today. Understanding which races were rated highest during this period helps modern runners choose events with a proven track record of excellence.
The World Marathon Majors of 2017
The World Marathon Majors represent the gold standard of distance running. In 2017, these six races continued to dominate rankings based on organization, crowd support, and elite competition.
Boston Marathon
The 2017 Boston Marathon was notable for its challenging conditions and dramatic finishes. Held on April 17, the 121st running of this historic race saw temperatures rise significantly, testing the endurance of every participant. Geoffrey Kirui and Edna Kiplagat secured victories, but for the average runner, 2017 was remembered as a year where hydration and pacing strategies were more critical than ever.
London Marathon
London is often cited as the most popular marathon in the world based on the number of applicants. In 2017, Mary Keitany set a women-only world record with a time of 2:17:01. The race was highly rated for its incredible spectator support and its flat, fast course that winds through the heart of the city, finishing near Buckingham Palace.
Berlin Marathon
Known as the fastest course in the world, the 2017 Berlin Marathon lived up to its reputation despite rainy conditions. Eliud Kipchoge won the race, further cementing his status as a legendary figure in the sport. Runners frequently rated this race as the best for achieving a personal record (PR) due to its minimal elevation changes and smooth road surfaces.
Chicago Marathon
The 2017 Chicago Marathon celebrated its 40th anniversary. It was a year of celebration and high ratings for event logistics. Galen Rupp became the first American man to win the race since 2002, which sparked a massive wave of enthusiasm for the domestic running scene. The course is famously flat and takes runners through 29 diverse neighborhoods.
Top Rated US Marathons Outside the Majors
While the Majors get the most attention, several other races in 2017 were highly reviewed by participants for their unique charm and professional management.
- California International Marathon (CIM): Frequently rated as the best “Boston Qualifier” course, CIM saw a record number of runners meet their qualifying standards in 2017. Its point-to-point, net-downhill profile makes it a favorite for speed seekers.
- Marine Corps Marathon: Known as “The People’s Marathon,” this Washington D.C. race was praised in 2017 for its patriotic atmosphere and the flawless organization provided by the U.S. Marine Corps. It remains a top choice for those who want a scenic tour of national monuments.
- Twin Cities Marathon: Often called the most beautiful urban marathon in America, the 2017 event was highly rated for its autumn foliage and the enthusiastic crowds lining the streets of Minneapolis and St. Paul.
Scenic and Destination Marathons of 2017
For many runners, the goal is not just a fast time but an unforgettable experience. In 2017, several destination marathons stood out in reviews for their breathtaking views and unique environments.
Big Sur International Marathon
Consistently rated as one of the most scenic races in the world, the 2017 Big Sur Marathon offered runners unparalleled views of the California coastline. Because the course is run on Highway 1, participation is limited, making it a highly coveted bib. Runners in 2017 praised the “piano player at Bixby Bridge” as a highlight of the grueling but beautiful course.
Midnight Sun Marathon
Located in Tromsø, Norway, this 2017 race allowed participants to run in broad daylight in the middle of the night. It was rated highly for its unique atmosphere and the novelty of completing 26.2 miles under the Arctic sun. It remains a top-tier choice for runners looking for something beyond the standard city race.
How to Access Historical Race Results
If you are looking for specific rankings or finish times from 2017, there are several reliable ways to find this data. Most major marathons maintain a permanent archive of their results on their official websites. You can typically search by year, age group, or bib number.
- Official Race Websites: Search for the “Results” or “Archive” section of the specific marathon you are interested in.
- Athletic Databases: Websites like Athlinks or MarathonGuide aggregate results from thousands of races, allowing you to see how a specific 2017 event compared to other years.
- Running Forums: Communities often discuss historical race conditions. Searching for “2017 marathon reviews” on forums can provide anecdotal evidence of how well a race was organized that year.
Lessons Learned from 2017 Race Trends
Looking back at the top-rated marathons of 2017 reveals several trends that continue to influence the sport today. First, the importance of weather-contingency planning became a major talking point after several high-profile races experienced unseasonable heat. Second, the rise of “experience-based” racing showed that runners are increasingly willing to travel for races that offer unique scenery or community engagement.
By studying the successes of 2017, race directors have improved hydration stations, security protocols, and digital tracking for spectators. For runners, the 2017 data serves as a benchmark for what a well-organized race should look like.
Conclusion
The marathons of 2017 offered a diverse range of experiences, from the record-breaking speeds of Berlin to the coastal beauty of Big Sur. Whether you are analyzing historical data to plan your next PR or simply curious about the highlights of that year, these races represent the best of what the running community has to offer. Understanding the rankings and reviews from this period helps ensure that the lessons of the past lead to better running experiences in the future. To learn more about race preparation or finding local events, explore our other guides on athletic training and event planning.