Fast Downhill Marathon FAQ

Do downhill races count for Boston Qualifying?

Yes. All Downhill Super Series marathons are certified courses and eligible for Boston Marathon qualifying times. None of our courses carry the 5-minute BQ penalty.

Are your courses designed for pacing and PR performance?

Our courses are built for negative splits: flatter early miles for controlled pacing, followed by a fast downhill finish. We have been hosting this design for 10 years.

How much elevation loss do the courses have?

Super Hyak and Cascade Express feature 1247 feet of net downhill. Jack & Jill offers about ~1,000 feet of net downhill.

Are downhill marathons easier?

Downhill marathons can help runners run faster times due to net elevation loss. However, proper downhill training is important for quad strength and pacing.

Which race is the fastest?

All three races are designed for speed, so runners often choose based on timing and personal preference.

Will there be pacers for Boston Qualifying times?

Yes, we do our best to offer pacers targeting common Boston Qualifying goal times to support runners aiming to hit their standard.

How do I find and run with a pacer?

Pacers will be clearly identified at the start line with pace signs. You can line up with your goal time and run alongside them throughout the race.