3= New York City MarathonIf any marathon could honestly claim to be the world’s favourite, it is New York City. No other event attracts such a high proportion of international runners from so wide a range of countries. They are drawn by the unique

Enjoy running? Like overseas travel? Like the company of other runners? Think you might be able to tolerate the company of RW staff members on their best behaviour for a few days or more...?Great! Runner's World has been enjoying your company

seasoned marathon veterans. Even the armchair fan is catered for with the kind of elite field that even the Olympics or World Championships envy. The inaugural event in 1981 was inspired by the New York City Marathon, but its ongoing success has made

3= Chicago MarathonIt may not have the crowds of New York City or the history of Boston, but in nearly all other respects Chicago now holds the edge as America’s best and biggest marathon. From its nadir in 1987 when the event was cancelled, Chicago

of loud, boisterous crowds. By the standards of London or New York, it’s a small race, but it doesn’t lack atmosphere – with healthy crowds throughout much of the two-lap, city-centre course. The race is designed to highlight the city’s wonderful location

and the knowledge that the organisers, despite a limited budget, put on a fine race. Crowd support doesn’t compare to New York or Boston, but the city does get behind the race and practically closes down on race day. Rotterdam was one of the first marathons to adopt

and you're on your own in the fairytale woods. You have got to try this. Inspirational. Go for it." —Michael NivenNew York City Marathon, USA"I can't imagine there being any better. Every thing was fantastic about the event: the atmosphere, landscape

(Essex, 25); Ian Lang (Hants, 25); RichK . (Gloucs, 25); Straycelt (Monmouthshire, 24); RichardW (Herts, 24); Simon boast (Wilts, 24); RFJ (Oxon, 23); Nuts11 (Kent, 23); The New Improved Mr Phil (Wales, 23); Shorty25 (N Yorks, 23); Oft (Wales, 22

Yorks, Jul 24)Thorpe Edge Festival 10K (West Yorks, July 10)Run Preston 10K (Lancs, July 10) Following the success of last year's events, Preston's Festival of Running is back. The day kicks off with a two-lap 10K, a single-lap 5K running slightly later

over 50 events taking place across the length and breadth of the UK, our 2009 Marathon Index has all the inspiration you need to embrace your new (or next) marathon challenge. Exmoor Coastal Marathon, May 9 Spring When is it? What is it