A growing number of elite athletes are turning marathon running into a lucrative career by securing sponsorships that cover entry fees and training costs, sometimes even earning substantial sums for competing. While standard marathon entry fees can reach hundreds of dollars, top performers now benefit from deals that eliminate financial barriers and provide additional compensation. The shift reflects how professionalization in endurance sports has blurred the lines between amateur passion and paid performance. Critics question whether this trend undermines the spirit of the marathon as a participatory event.
Why pay $330 to run a marathon? Let me try to explain. Business Insider
