Date
October 11, 2026
Field Size
Small (<500)
PR Score
98.0 / 100
BQ Rate
2.5%
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Course drops an average of 3,600 feet from start to finish, maximizing downhill momentum.
Only 2.5% of finishers qualify for Boston, indicating this is not a common BQ race.
Field size is capped at 40 finishers, ensuring a small, close-knit running experience.
Takes place entirely on a scenic dirt trail, providing a softer surface that can reduce impact on the legs.
Nearly 100% of the Bizz Johnson Marathon is a downhill course, making it a unique journey through California’s scenic Lassen National Forest. Runners experience a surprisingly intimate atmosphere with only around 40 finishers, creating a stark contrast to larger marathons. This race is not only beautiful—it's also one of the few with a PR score of 98.02, pointing to its downhill nature.
Bizz Johnson Marathon is an Emerging BQ venue — a legitimate qualifier for committed runners, though BQ rates are still building as the race grows. Historically, around 2.5% of finishers have posted Boston-qualifying times here. The net-downhill profile creates genuine PR conditions, but demands respect — early miles require disciplined effort to avoid blowing up late.
To maximize your chances for a BQ, focus on controlled pacing at the start to manage the downhill sections. Strategically train for the loss of elevation, and incorporate downhill runs into your preparation to build strength and confidence.
No elevation data was found in the course profile file.
Historical average based on 3-year data for this race date
Temp
63.0°F / 41.1°F
Conditions
Snowy
Precipitation
0.07 in
Wind
9.2 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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