Set in Spearfish, SD, the course offers scenic views of the Black Hills, enhancing the experience with natural beauty throughout the run.
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.
A downhill course might sound like an easy ride, but the Leading Ladies Marathon in Spearfish demands respect. Set against the stunning backdrop of the Black Hills, this race is a unique opportunity for women to achieve their marathon goals while celebrating female empowerment. It’s one of the more favorable courses in terms of energy expenditure, but don’t underestimate the need for careful pacing to navigate the descent effectively.
BMQR course profile: Downhill.
To maximize your chances for a BQ, focus on controlled pacing early on to avoid the temptation of going too fast on the downhill sections. Use the gradual decline to your advantage, but be careful not to overexert yourself in the first half—maintaining a consistent effort will help you finish strong.
No elevation data was found in the course profile file.
Historical average based on 3-year data for this race date
Temp
83.9°F / 60.4°F
Conditions
Partly Cloudy
Precipitation
0.04 in
Wind
13.7 mph
Historical averages · Source: Open-Meteo · Actual conditions will vary
Typical conditions: Warm to hot (65–80°F), humidity varies. Summer racing demands careful heat management and aggressive early hydration; build a conservative first-half plan and let your fitness carry you home.
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