Date
October 10, 2026
Field Size
Small (<500)
PR Score
99.0 / 100
BQ Rate
1.8%
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PR Score of 98.99, indicating a mostly flat terrain with minimal elevation changes.
BQ Rate of just 1.8%, suggesting that while the course is runnable, it's not easy to achieve a qualifying time.
Field size is limited to 225 finishers, creating a more intimate racing environment without the chaos of larger events.
Courses run along the Des Plaines River Trail, providing a mix of natural scenery and a consistent surface.
With a PR score of 98.99, this marathon stands out as a predominantly flat course that runners often appreciate for its straightforward path. Set against the backdrop of Lincolnshire, IL, the Des Plaines River Trail offers a scenic experience along the river, making it visually engaging as you navigate through its twists and turns. However, despite the appealing terrain, only about 1.8% of finishers manage to qualify for Boston, indicating that some elements of the race might test your endurance.
Des Plaines River Trail Marathon is an Emerging BQ venue — a legitimate qualifier for committed runners, though BQ rates are still building as the race grows. Historically, around 1.8% of finishers have posted Boston-qualifying times here. The course profile rewards runners who execute a well-paced effort from the start.
To maximize your chances for a BQ, focus on maintaining an even effort, particularly in the first half of the race where the course's flat profile can encourage faster pacing. Also, be prepared for possible fatigue in the later miles, as the serene environment can sometimes lull you into a false sense of comfort.
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
63.2°F / 47.6°F
Conditions
Rainy
Precipitation
0.01 in
Wind
9.4 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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