Champlain Islands Marathon

    Emerging BQ Likelihood
    South Hero, VT

    Date

    October 18, 2026

    Field Size

    Small (<500)

    PR Score

    98.2 / 100

    BQ Rate

    5.5%

    Rolling Hills
    Small race fansFirst-time qualifiers

    Why It's BQ-Friendly

    Course profile includes rolling hills, providing both scenic views and strategic elevation changes.

    5.5% BQ rate reflects a tough but attainable qualification opportunity for many runners.

    A small field size of 128 finishers fosters a community atmosphere and less crowded racing experience.

    Held in mid-October, runners can expect cool fall weather that can aid performance, but the hilly terrain is a key consideration.

    About This Race

    Only 128 finishers participated in last year's Champlain Islands Marathon, making for a close-knit racing environment. Set against the backdrop of Vermont's scenic fall foliage, the course features rolling hills that keep you engaged, while offering a unique challenge compared to flatter marathons. With a PR score of 98.23, the energy expenditure is slightly higher, emphasizing the need for tactical pacing throughout the race.

    Race Strategy

    To maximize your chances of qualifying for Boston, tackle the hills conservatively. Focus on maintaining an even effort uphill and let gravity assist you on the descents, making sure to conserve energy for the final miles.

    Course & Elevation

    Course Profile Coming Soon

    Detailed elevation profile data is being prepared for this race. Check back soon for interactive course analysis.

    Typical Race Day Weather

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

    🌡️

    Temp

    58.8°F / 50.0°F

    ☁️

    Conditions

    Partly Cloudy

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    Precipitation

    0.04 in

    💨

    Wind

    14.1 mph

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

    Travel for This Race

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