Baltimore Marathon

    Emerging BQ Likelihood
    Baltimore, MD

    Date

    October 17, 2026

    Field Size

    Medium (500 - 1,999)

    PR Score

    97.7 / 100

    BQ Rate

    4.2%

    Hilly
    First-time qualifiers

    Why It's BQ-Friendly

    Course elevation gain of 800 feet over 26.2 miles, with notable hills around miles 10 and 14.

    A moderate-sized field of 1,633 finishers creates a competitive yet manageable atmosphere.

    PR Score of 97.72 indicates a predominantly hilly course, making it essential to prepare for inclines and declines.

    Race held in mid-October, ideal for fall foliage and cooler running conditions, despite the hills.

    About This Race

    Not many marathons give you the chance to conquer 800 feet of elevation gain over the course. Nestled in the heart of Baltimore, this race will take you through diverse neighborhoods, including the picturesque waterfront and historic districts. Expect a challenging experience, especially around the halfway point where the hills become more pronounced. Although only 4.2% of finishers end up qualifying for Boston, the camaraderie and vibrant local support make the struggle worthwhile.

    Race Strategy

    Focus on maintaining a consistent effort on the hills, particularly in the early miles. Save energy for the later stages, especially during the steepest sections, and use the downhills to recover without losing too much momentum.

    Course & Elevation

    No Elevation Data

    No elevation data was found in the course profile file.

    Typical Race Day Weather

    Historical average based on 3-year data for this race date

    🌡️

    Temp

    61.5°F / 45.3°F

    ☁️

    Conditions

    Partly Cloudy

    🌧️

    Precipitation

    0.00 in

    💨

    Wind

    10.1 mph

    Historical averages · Source: Open-Meteo · Actual conditions will vary

    Travel for This Race

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