Date
September 27, 2026
Field Size
Small (<500)
PR Score
99.1 / 100
BQ Rate
11.3%
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99.11 PR score indicating a net downhill course
11.3% of finishers manage to qualify for Boston
Small field with only 372 finishers, allowing for less congestion
Scenic rural New Hampshire setting with supportive local crowds
B.A.A. downhill indexing may apply. For 2027 Boston registration and beyond, certified courses with 1,500+ ft net downhill receive a +5:00 or +10:00 adjustment, and courses with 6,000+ ft net downhill are not eligible.
With a PR score of 99.11, the Clarence DeMar Marathon is one of the most downhill-friendly courses you'll find in the Northeast. Runners experience a series of gentle slopes that can help you conserve energy as you hit your stride. The small field size of just 372 finishers means you'll have less crowding and more room to find your rhythm. Many participants appreciate the quaint charm of Keene, which provides a picturesque backdrop as you tackle your race day goals.
Clarence DeMar Marathon is an Emerging BQ venue, a legitimate qualifier for committed runners, though BQ rates are still building as the race grows. Historically, around 11.3% of finishers have posted Boston-qualifying times here. The net-downhill profile can create genuine PR conditions, but B.A.A. downhill indexing may apply if the course has 1,500+ ft net elevation loss. Early miles also require disciplined effort to avoid blowing up late.
To maximize your BQ chances, focus on maintaining a consistent effort on the early downhill sections without going out too fast. Use the gradual downhill to your advantage, but remain mindful of pacing to avoid burnout later in the race.
No elevation data was found in the course profile file.
Historical average based on 3-year data for this race date
Temp
71.8°F / 53.0°F
Conditions
Partly Cloudy
Precipitation
0.00 in
Wind
5.9 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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