Date
April 26, 2026
Field Size
Small (<500)
PR Score
94.9 / 100
BQ Rate
2.8%
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Course elevation changes significantly, with multiple hills that can impact pacing.
Only 2.8% of finishers qualified for Boston in the last race, indicating the difficulty level.
Field size is limited to 176 finishers, providing a more intimate race experience.
Part of the scenic Pacific Northwest, the course features stunning views of water and forested areas.
With a PR score of 94.94, Whidbey Island Marathon presents a challenging hilly course that demands respect. Runners can expect a scenic journey through the lush Pacific Northwest, with rolling terrain that keeps you engaged but also tests your endurance. The small field of 176 finishers means that every participant has a chance to find their rhythm without being overwhelmed by crowds.
Whidbey Island Marathon is an Emerging BQ venue — a legitimate qualifier for committed runners, though BQ rates are still building as the race grows. Historically, around 2.8% 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.
Focus on maintaining a steady effort, especially on the uphills, to prevent early fatigue. Save some energy for the final stretches, as the hills can drain your reserves. Familiarize yourself with the course profile to plan your pacing around the challenging segments.
Detailed elevation profile data is being prepared for this race. Check back soon for interactive course analysis.
Historical average based on 3-year data for this race date
Temp
55.9°F / 46.4°F
Conditions
Partly Cloudy
Precipitation
0.08 in
Wind
16.1 mph
Historical averages · Source: Open-Meteo · Actual conditions will vary
Typical conditions: Cool to mild (45–65°F), variable conditions. Spring race-day temperatures can shift quickly — check the forecast in the week before and plan your kit for a range of conditions.
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