Project Purple has recently become an official charity partner of the Boston Marathon, making Project Purple one of only two charities at all five of the world’s biggest marathons. With this new milestone, we have come an incredibly long way from our first small running team in 2010. Read on to learn more about the 5 biggest marathons in the world, how you can run them for pancreatic cancer research & patient aid, and how our run teams became what they are today.
What are the Five Biggest Marathons In The World?
Though we have teams in a wide array of marathons and the option to participate in any race through our Pioneer Program, there are many runners who gravitate towards the Abbot World Marathon Majors. Whether you are pursuing you 6 stars (5 of which can be earned through Project Purple Run teams) or the thrilling atmosphere, Project Purple can help you accomplish your physical goals all while raising funds for pancreatic cancer research and patient financial aid.
1. The TCS New York City Marathon
This marathon is the largest road race in the world, with over 47,000 finishers in 2022, according to Marathon Handbook. Project Purple loves coming back each year with our team because this race gives everyone the chance to feel like a winner. Not only do runners get to appreciate the vibrant culture of each borough, but they get to do so in the company of both novice and avid runners and everyone in between! This is one of our biggest events of the year at Project Purple and we make it a party with rowdy cheer zones, friendly meet and greets, and a celebratory after-party. If you are interested in applying for the Project Purple New York City Run Team, click here for more information!
2. The TCS London Marathon
This race is not only one of the largest in the world, but it is also one of the hardest to get into. According to Marathon Handbook, the 2024 London Marathon already has well over half a million applicants, which breaks the world record for the most marathon entry applications to date. Project Purple has exclusive access to London Marathon slots on our run teams. If you are interested in applying for the Project Purple London Marathon Run Team, click here for more information!
3. The Bank of America Chicago Marathon
This race is great for those who are trying to break their personal records, as it is known to have one of the fastest courses in the world. The course is a simple loop, starting and ending at Grant Park in Chicago’s business district. The course is very flat, making it easier to traverse than some others on this list. Project Purple loves coming to the Windy City every year and enjoying this beautiful and super runner-friendly course. If you are interested in signing up for the Project Purple Chicago Run Team, click here for more information!
4. The Boston Marathon
This marathon is not only one of the largest in the world, it is also one of the oldest. Athletes have been running this course since 1897, even though it is the newest race to Project Purple! A difficult course with a rich history, this is one of the most iconic races in the world. If you are interested in being a part of history, apply for the Project Purple Boston Run Team! Click here for more information!
5. The BMW Berlin Marathon
This fifth and final marathon on our list has arguably the best view. If you want to run past historic landmarks and gorgeous landscapes, this is the race for you. Located in the heart of Germany, the Berlin Marathon combines a flat, fast course with a vibrant atmosphere, making it one of the best running experiences on this list. If you are interested in applying for the Project Purple Berlin Run Team, click here for more information!
For more information about our marathon schedule, please click here!
From Pain Comes Purpose: How The Loss Of A Father Led To The Creation Of One Of The World’s Premier Charity Run Teams
Dino Verrelli, founder and CEO of Project Purple, lost his father to pancreatic cancer in 2010. During the two-year period of his father’s diagnosis, Verrelli acted not just as a son, but as a caregiver for his father. After Giovanni’s passing, Dino made a promise to his father, vowing to persevere in the fight against pancreatic cancer. This promise has given the organization its driving message of hope and a shared commitment to honoring those who have faced this disease to make a lasting impact in the fight against pancreatic cancer.
Verrelli’s father not only sparked the idea for the organization; he also inspired Project Purple’s focus on fitness. Dino found that running became a major coping mechanism for him as he struggled with his father’s diagnosis. The sport not only gave comfort to the grieving son but also provided a community of athletes who supported him throughout his journey. This personal connection to both pancreatic cancer, and the interpersonal benefits of fitness, provided the foundation for the organization and all of its events.
Now, Project Purple is honored to state that we are one of just two charities to have run teams in all five of the largest marathons in the world. Through your support and perseverance, Project Purple has been able to continue its mission through running, giving people a positive outlet for their emotions.
To get involved with our run teams and other events, please click here.
If you do not feel able to run, but still want to help our community, please click here for other ways to give. We will see everybody on the course for our upcoming races.
