Date
September 13, 2026
Field Size
Small (<500)
PR Score
100.3 / 100
BQ Rate
12.9%
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Hilly course profile with significant elevation changes throughout, demanding both physical and mental stamina.
Limited field size of 466 finishers creates a more intimate running environment and less congestion on the course.
12.9% of finishers successfully qualify for Boston, indicating a competitive atmosphere for those aiming for PRs.
Located in North Bend, WA, the route features stunning views of the Pacific Northwest's natural beauty, adding to the unique race experience.
With a PR score of 100.3, this marathon presents an uphill energy cost, making it a challenge for those seeking to qualify for Boston. North Bend’s hilly terrain will keep you engaged, as you navigate through the scenic, yet demanding, landscapes. Just under 13% of finishers have qualified for Boston here, which speaks volumes about the effort required to achieve that goal on this course.
Tunnel Light Marathon is an Emerging BQ venue — a legitimate qualifier for committed runners, though BQ rates are still building as the race grows. Historically, around 12.9% of finishers have posted Boston-qualifying times here. The hilly course profile separates this race from the fast-course tier, requiring a disciplined strategy to run a BQ-quality time.
To maximize your chances of qualifying for Boston, focus on maintaining a strong effort on the uphill sections while conserving energy for the descents. Plan to tackle the hills with a gear shift approach—push on the climbs, but allow yourself to recover and pick up speed on the downhill portions.
Detailed elevation profile data is being prepared for this race. Check back soon for interactive course analysis.
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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