Date
September 20, 2026
Field Size
Small (<500)
PR Score
98.3 / 100
BQ Rate
4.6%
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Rolling hills throughout the course create a more varied running experience compared to flat marathons.
The marathon finishes near the picturesque Bellingham Bay, offering stunning views and a scenic backdrop.
With only 286 finishers, the smaller field size allows for a more intimate race atmosphere and personalized crowd support.
The BQ rate of 4.6% indicates that while it's a challenge, dedicated runners have the opportunity to qualify.
With a PR score of 98.33, it's clear that this marathon isn't a flat course, but runners appreciate the rolling hills that keep things interesting. You’ll weave through Bellingham’s waterfront and lush landscapes, with plenty of scenic views to distract from the effort. Only 4.6% of finishers manage to qualify for Boston, which gives a sense of the competitive edge among this small field of 286 participants. Expect a local vibe, as the smaller crowd means more support from enthusiastic spectators along the route.
Bellingham Bay Marathon is an Emerging BQ venue — a legitimate qualifier for committed runners, though BQ rates are still building as the race grows. Historically, around 4.6% of finishers have posted Boston-qualifying times here. The course profile rewards runners who execute a well-paced effort from the start.
Focus on maintaining a steady effort on the hills, as the rolling terrain can sap your energy if not managed well. Save some strength for the final miles near the bay, where the scenery may push you to find an extra gear.
Detailed elevation profile data is being prepared for this race. Check back soon for interactive course analysis.
Historical average based on 3-year data for this race date
Temp
65.1°F / 49.7°F
Conditions
Partly Cloudy
Precipitation
0.04 in
Wind
7.7 mph
Historical averages · Source: Open-Meteo · Actual conditions will vary
Typical conditions: Cool (40–60°F), ideal racing conditions. Fall conditions are typically the most reliable for marathon efforts, with cool mornings that hold through the finish for most runners.
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