St. Louis Selected as Host for 2028 U.S. Olympic Marathon Trials

St. Louis Selected as Host for 2028 U.S. Olympic Marathon Trials

St. Louis will determine the first six athletes for Team USA at the 2028 Olympic marathon trials, set for March 2024.

Content source: NBC News
Published on: 06 June 2026

In-depth analysis

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St. Louis has been selected to host the U.S. Olympic marathon trials in March 2024, a pivotal event for determining the first six athletes for Team USA. This will include both men's and women's trials, enhancing the city's role in the upcoming 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles.

Player performance

The recent emergence of athletes like Sebastian Sawe, who completed a sub-2-hour marathon on a ratified course, showcases the evolving standards of marathon running and sets a high bar for competitors in the upcoming trials.

Team strategy

USA Track & Field has revised its qualifying standards, lowering the men's marathon trial time to 2:18:00 while keeping the women's standard at 2:37:00. This adjustment reflects the increasing speed in marathon events and aims to maintain competitive representation.

Upcoming events

The marathon trials in St. Louis are set for March 2024, marking the initial selection process for Olympic athletes ahead of the 2028 Games, generating significant anticipation among competitors and fans alike.

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Why this game matters

The selection of St. Louis as the host for the 2028 Olympic marathon trials is more than just a local event; it’s a pivotal moment for American athletics. With a history of marathon excellence, this trials event will not only spotlight emerging talent but also ignite the city’s Olympic spirit, fostering community pride and engagement. As the nation strives to regain its marathon glory, these trials will be a crucial stepping stone.

What you won't see on TV

During the marathon trials, athletes will be running on a uniquely designed course that features several loops through downtown St. Louis, a departure from traditional marathon routes. This design not only allows for easier spectator access but also enables runners to receive real-time feedback from coaches and fans, enhancing the overall competitive experience.

On the road to a dream

Marcus, 34, from Chicago, has dreamt of running in the Olympics since he was a child, inspired by stories of American marathon legends. After years of intense training and personal sacrifice, he qualified for the upcoming trials. For Marcus, crossing the finish line in St. Louis will symbolize not just an athletic achievement, but a testament to his perseverance. He remembers his late father, who cheered him on through every race, and hopes to honor his memory by securing a spot on Team USA.

Expert Commentary

St. Louis's selection as the host for the U.S. Olympic marathon trials is a pivotal moment, not just for the city but for the broader landscape of American distance running. With the trials serving as the first Olympic selection event for 2028, they highlight the urgent need for the U.S. to regain its historical dominance in marathon events. The adjustments to qualifying standards reflect a proactive approach to the evolving nature of the sport, where performance levels are climbing rapidly. As athletes gear up for this critical competition, the implications for the future of American marathon running are profound, potentially shaping the narrative leading into the Los Angeles Games.
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