Date
December 5, 2026
Field Size
Medium (500 - 1,999)
PR Score
98.5 / 100
BQ Rate
4.3%
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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.
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.
St. Jude Memphis Marathon is an Emerging BQ venue — a legitimate qualifier for committed runners, though BQ rates are still building as the race grows. Historically, around 4.3% 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 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.
No elevation data was found in the course profile file.
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
Typical conditions: Cool (35–50°F). 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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