Conquer the cold! Sign-up for the Madison Marathon on November 10, 2024. View beautiful, iconic Madison, Wisconsin when you challenge yourself with this Boston Marathon qualifying event. See you at the Capitol!
The Madison Marathon was the 41st largest marathon in the U.S. last year and was the 52nd largest in 2022.
Last year 8% of finishers qualified for the Boston Marathon and 7.8% of runners qualified for Boston in 2022.
This gives the Madison Marathon the 240th highest percentage of Boston Marathon qualifiers in the U.S. last year and the 237th highest percentage in 2022.
Its Course Score of 98.40 ranks it as the 286th fastest marathon course in the U.S. and the 17th fastest course in Wisconsin.
The typical race time temperature and humidity levels are within the ideal range for optimal marathon performance. This, coupled with the Course Score, gives the Madison Marathon a PR Score of 98.40. This PR Score ranks it as the 224th fastest marathon in the U.S. and the 12th fastest in Wisconsin.
Learn more about PR Scores and Course Scores on the FAQ page.
Madison Marathon Elevation Chart
Max Elevation: 944 feet (287m) Min Elevation: 843 feet (257m)
Great Atmosphere, Great Course! Lots of hills. Overall this marathon is fun and challenging. It gives you such a sense of accomplishment as you conquer each hill that comes your way.
Race Tips
Hill train and don't hesitate to walk if you need too.
Race goes through a lot of suburban neighborhoods with no crowd support. Lot of hills, including a pointless out and back to Mendota mental health institute. The last two miles are lonely with runners spread out and no spectators. Cops allow cars to cross the race route. And this year the race had to stop for a train! The end of the race "party" consists of a bagged sandwich and ONE 8oz chocolate milk. Yes, they refuse to give you two. Poorly organized and you feel like your are imposing on a city that doesn't want the race.
Race Tips
Be prepared for a lot of small and not-so-small hills. It can be cold, and this year snow was predicted for race day (but thankfully stayed away). Finally, it is an uphill finish.
Hills hills hills, running try suburban neighborhoods, no community support, no idea where gu was available on course, poor finish area with a bagged sandwich