Ballots vs First-Come, First-Served

Dear SuperHalfs runners,

We’ve seen your emails and heard your opinions on social media after some registrations for the 2026 races went live – and we feel the need to respond to one of the frequently asked questions: “Ballot isn’t fair!”

Let's talk about it in more detail here.

First to Clarify, Who Organizes SuperHalfs Races?
Each SuperHalfs race is run by a different organizer in a different country - each with its own history, way of doing things, responsibilities, and communities to consider. These races have been around long before SuperHalfs existed, and each one operates independently. Together, they form our SuperHalfs series, but each race still manages its own registrations.

What’s Changed?
As you notice, the popularity of SuperHalfs has exploded. Demand to run these SuperRaces is now much higher than the number of available spots. In 2024, several races - like Copenhagen, Cardiff, and Valencia - sold out within hours, leaving many runners stuck in queues or unable to access registration at all. All these races used the first-come, first-served registration model.

Why First-Come, First-Served Might Not Always Work Anymore
Here’s what’s tricky about first-come, first-served registration:
•    You have to be online at a specific moment, sometimes for hours.
•    If you're busy, in a different time zone, or have slow internet, you're at a disadvantage.
•    It creates a time consuming, stressful, and frustrating experience for many.
•    It doesn’t guarantee you the race entry afterall.

Why a Ballot Might Be Better
More and more races are looking at ballots (lotteries) because they offer a more balanced way to handle high demand:
•    You can enter the ballot anytime over a few weeks - no rush, no pressure, and no advantage and disadvantage if you enter on the first day, the last day, or anytime in between.
•    Everyone has the same chance, regardless of time zones or internet speed.
•    It’s not perfect, but it’s less stressful and more inclusive.
•    It still doesn’t guarantee you the race entry – the race capacity is simply limited.

Are All Races Switching To Ballots Now?
Not necessarily. Each race will decide independently whether a ballot makes sense based on their situation - but we support this shift where it's needed and helpful.

What we know so far from the races about the type of registration?

And What If You Don’t Get In?
We know it’s tough not to be selected. That’s why we’ve introduced a special support for runners who haven't run any SuperHalfs race in two years. If that happens, we’ll make sure you get a spot the next time.
You can read the details here: SuperHalfs FAQs

A Few More Clarifications on Your Comments And Thoughts

• It’s not fair that someone can buy lots of entries in a ballot.
  This is not true. Typically, you can register for a small number of entries (usually 3) to allow running with family or friends - but not unlimited spots.
• You make us buy entries from travel agencies or charities - it’s not fair!
  Travel agencies receive no more than 5% of total entries. This isn’t what blocks general access. Many runners prefer agencies - for ease, group travel, and complete packages. Every runner has different needs, and we try to accommodate all.
• Why don’t you give priority access to SuperHalfs runners?
  We aim for equal access for everyone - local runners, loyal communities, first-timers, and SuperHalfs runners alike. Prioritizing one group would exclude others and that’s not fair too. And even if we wanted, it is still not possible to give priority to all because the number of SuperHalfs runners significantly exceeds the capacity of the races.
• I’m so close to completing the series - can I get a reserved spot?
  We understand that, and we’ve built something to help: if you don’t get into any SuperHalfs race for two years, we’ll guarantee you a spot next time. This way, those closest to completing the series still get there - fairly and calmly.
• What about fast runners - can they get in based on time?
  SuperHalfs is about participation, not competition. It’s for everyone: fast, slow, young, old. We celebrate personal journeys, not speed.
• What if I run out of time to complete the series?
  We’ve removed the 60-month limit. There’s no deadline - no stress. Take your time, enjoy the journey, and if you’re stuck, we’re here to help.

We hope this helps clarify the situation and answers your concerns. 
We know how much these races mean to you - they mean a lot to us too. We’ll keep doing everything we can to make SuperHalfs fair, exciting, and welcoming for runners everywhere.
Thank you for being such a patient and passionate part of this journey!

The SuperHalfs Team