Date
February 7, 2026
Field Size
Small (<500)
PR Score
99.2 / 100
BQ Rate
2.0%
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Rolling hills throughout the course, providing variations in elevation that can be both challenging and engaging.
A small field with only 101 finishers in 2026, allowing for a more personal race experience and less congestion.
BQ rate of 2%, indicating that qualifying for Boston is a tough but not impossible feat here.
Average PR score of 99.24 suggests a moderately challenging course, requiring good pacing strategy and preparation.
With a PR score of 99.24, the Groundhog Day Marathon presents a unique mix of rolling hills in the heart of winter. Runners should prepare for a small but dedicated field, as around 100 finishers take on the challenge each year. The BQ rate hovers around 2%, meaning you'll need to be sharp to qualify. Set against the backdrop of Grand Rapids, this race offers a character all its own, with a cozy community vibe.
Groundhog Day Marathon is an Emerging BQ venue, a legitimate qualifier for committed runners, though BQ rates are still building as the race grows. Historically, around 2.0% of finishers have posted Boston-qualifying times here. The course profile rewards runners who execute a well-paced effort from the start.
Focus on maintaining a steady effort on the rolling hills rather than trying to speed up on downhills. Save energy on the climbs by utilizing proper form and breathing, and be prepared to pick up the pace on flatter sections to counterbalance the elevation changes.
Detailed elevation profile data is being prepared for this race. Check back soon for interactive course analysis.
Typical conditions: Cold (25–40°F), dress in layers. Winter races reward layers at the start line. Most runners strip down after the first few miles as effort warms them up.
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