St. Jude Memphis Marathon

    Emerging BQ Likelihood
    Memphis, TN

    Date

    December 5, 2026

    Field Size

    Medium (500 - 1,999)

    PR Score

    98.5 / 100

    BQ Rate

    4.3%

    Rolling Hills
    First-time qualifiers

    Why It's BQ-Friendly

    PR Score of 98.52 indicates a challenging course due to rolling hills.

    Average finishing time is around 4:10, providing insight into the race's competitive nature.

    Field size of 1,846 finishers ensures a manageable crowd for pacing and support.

    The course runs through key Memphis landmarks, enhancing the running experience with local flavor.

    About This Race

    Around 4.3% of finishers at the St. Jude Memphis Marathon secure a spot in Boston, which may tempt runners considering a qualifying attempt. The course features rolling hills that can test your endurance, particularly in the latter miles when fatigue sets in. Runners often rave about the vibrant local culture and the live music that fills the air, creating an electrifying atmosphere throughout the race. Expect a solid turnout of nearly 1,900 participants, ensuring enough camaraderie while not feeling overcrowded on the course.

    Race Strategy

    To maximize your Boston qualifying chances, focus on maintaining an even effort throughout the ups and downs of the course. Train specifically for the rolling hills in the latter stages, ensuring you have the strength to push through when others may struggle.

    Course & Elevation

    No Elevation Data

    No elevation data was found in the course profile file.

    Typical Race Day Weather

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

    🌡️

    Temp

    47.1°F / 31.8°F

    ☁️

    Conditions

    Partly Cloudy

    🌧️

    Precipitation

    0.00 in

    💨

    Wind

    12.0 mph

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

    Travel for This Race

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