LA Marathon allows runners to get medal for quitting early

Organizers for the 2026 ASICS Los Angeles Marathon allowed participants this year to receive finisher medals even if they did not complete the full race. Under the new decision, runners who reach Mile 18 will be given the option to turn toward the finish line early rather than complete the full 26.2-mile race.

“If you’re having a tough day and want to end your race before 26.2, you can choose to take the turn at Mile 18 and head into the finish line early. You do not need to notify anyone of your decision and can opt to take this route at any time,” race officials said.

“There is no shame in making a smart decision for your body,” officials added.

Participants who chose to finish early were still awarded a finisher medal as well as any challenger medals they had earned. Organizers said the option was introduced only for this year’s race.

The decision quickly drew mockery online, with critics comparing the policy to being even worse than a participation trophy because runners could receive finishing medals without completing the full distance. Race organizers said the change was made due to weather concerns, with temperatures expected to reach the 80s during the event. In the past, organizers have canceled or moved races due to extreme heat.

"Our weather conversations have been ongoing… We start actively monitoring it with the LA Fire Department who partners with the National Weather Service 10 days before the race," Meg Treat, whose firm Treat Public Relations handles communications for the marathon, told Runner’s World. Roughly 26,000 runners registered for this year’s marathon.