The Tokyo Marathon—the first World Marathon Major of 2024—took place Sunday morning in Japan. It is the 6th and newest of the Abbot world marathon majors. In near-perfect conditions, with a starting temperature of about 42 degrees, more than 37,000 runners took to the streets in Japan’s capital city. This was Paul Hinsleys 6th and final world marathon major to complete before gaining the much coveted six star medal. The Six Star Medal was introduced by the Abbott World Marathon Majors in 2016 to honor the runners who complete all six Major marathons. Upon completion of all world Majors runners receive their medal and are included in the Hall of Fame.
Paul secured all previous marathon major entries through good for age qualifying times, a huge achievement in itself.
Berlin in 2017: 3:24
Boston in 2019: 3:50
London in 2019: 3:28
Chicago in 2022: 3:34
New York in 2023: 3:50
The Tokyo qualifying time was an elite entry time of 2:30 so for this final marathon Paul managed to purchase his place. Paul loved the experience. Although hot there was plenty of shade. The course looped back on itself which he found demoralizing at points, seeing so many runners ahead of him but there was huge crowd support, very polite but sincere, to keep him going. He crossed the line in 3:45. What a fantastic goal and accomplishment. ou can now find Paul in the Hall of fame.
