Course features notable hills that can significantly impact finish times, particularly in the second half.
BQ rate of just 1.3% indicates a tough course for qualifying for Boston, highlighting the need for an efficient pacing strategy.
Small field size of 156 allows for less congestion, which can be beneficial for runners looking to maintain their own rhythm.
The race takes place in early October, promising cooler temperatures ideal for long-distance running, despite the hilly terrain.
Running the BHM 26.2 Marathon means tackling a course with a PR Score of 96.12, indicating a challenging uphill energy cost. Situated in Birmingham, Alabama, this race presents a hilly terrain that tests both grit and strategy. With only 156 finishers in 2026, you'll find a tightly-knit field that may enhance the sense of community while pushing you to your limits.
BHM 26.2 Marathon is an Emerging BQ venue — a legitimate qualifier for committed runners, though BQ rates are still building as the race grows. Historically, around 1.3% of finishers have posted Boston-qualifying times here. The hilly course profile separates this race from the fast-course tier, requiring a disciplined strategy to run a BQ-quality time.
Focus on conserving energy during the initial downhill sections, but be prepared for the steep climbs in the later miles. Break the course into manageable segments, using downhill stretches to recover and aiming to keep a steady effort on the inclines.
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
81.6°F / 63.8°F
Conditions
Partly Cloudy
Precipitation
0.01 in
Wind
8.4 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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