Marathoning has transformed from an elite activity, done only by the most passionate of amateurs, into a mass-participation event. A decade ago around 80,000 people entered the lottery for the chance to run the NYC marathon. This year over 200,000 did. As interest has grown, so too have mile times.

THE GENERAL ELECTION IN NOVEMBER. AND THERE’S THIS NOTE FOR YOU TODAY. QUALIFIER REGISTRATION OPENS FOR THE 130TH BOSTON MARATHON. ATHLETES WHO HAVE MET A QUALIFYING STANDARD CAN APPLY BETWEEN TODAY AND FRIDAY. REGISTRATION OPENS AT TEN THIS MORNING.