Abstract

Marathon running has become one of the fastest growing endurance competitions, with over half a million U.S. participants completing the 26.2-mile race each year. As the popularity of marathons continues to rise among non-professional competitors, more attention is being placed on what motivates individuals to train and compete in a full marathon. Furthermore, very little is known about the motivational differences between the varying levels of performers among the non-professional population, such as the motives that influence runners who train to qualify for and compete in the Boston Marathon. The purpose of this study was to ex amine the different motives reported among Boston Marathon qualifiers (BQ), those trying to Boston qualify (TBQ), and non-Boston qualifiers (NBQ) in understanding what motives separate the varying levels of per formances, as measured by the Motivations of Marathoners Scales (MOMS). This study utilized a quantitative approach, using a basic demographics questionnaire addressing participant background and running history, as well as the MOMS instrument to investigate key motives. Results revealed that all marathoners involved in the study were motivated primarily by achievement and physical motives. Although, key differences in motiva tion were revealed in achievement and social motives among the BQ and TBQ marathoners when compared to the NBQ population. Understanding the relationship between motives and running performance may help mo tivate marathoners aspiring to run faster times, such as those who desire to qualify for the Boston Marathon.

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