20-Year-Old Boston Native Completes 6 Abbott World Marathon Majors

A 20-year-old Boston native has become the youngest male to complete all six Abbott World Marathon Majors. 

James Redding from Boston's Brighton neighborhood achieved this remarkable feat this year after 18 months and six marathons in Boston, Chicago, New York, Tokyo, London, and Berlin. The Boston College junior crossed the finish line in Berlin in September, which earned him a Six-Star Medal.

Redding considers Boston his favorite race due to its personal significance and the energetic, grateful atmosphere. He recorded his fastest marathon time in Chicago, however.

Redding credits his supporters for helping him reach his goals and supporting his hard work and perseverance.

It's just going to be something I can look back on, and remember that the hard work does pay off, and that I am 100% capable of getting through times that may get tough,” Redding said in a statement shared with NBC10 Boston.

Looking ahead, Redding plans to run the Sydney Marathon, which recently joined the Abbott World Marathon Majors. He strives to earn his Nine-Star Medal once Cape Town and Shanghai are officially added to the Abbott World Marathon Majors series.

According to a Boston.com report, Redding's marathon journey began at age 14 as a way to stay in shape. He started with 5Ks and 10Ks before completing a half-marathon in 2021.

In 2024, he completed his first marathon in Boston, raising funds for the Huntington's Disease Society of America. 

“Every mile was better than I expected,” he said of the Boston racing experience. “Just the energy, and I think also the gratitude that I had toward everybody that had made it happen. There's no other race that has been that personal to me.”