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    Boston Marathon

    Boston, MA

    April

    HARD
    260m elevation gain

    The world's oldest annual marathon and one of the most prestigious. Famous for its challenging Newton Hills section, including the legendary Heartbreak Hill, despite an overall net downhill course from Hopkinton to Boston.

    Course Highlights

    What makes this course special

    • •Historic start in Hopkinton with downhill opening miles
    • •Wellesley College "Scream Tunnel" at mile 13
    • •Newton Hills begin at mile 17 - four distinct climbs
    • •Heartbreak Hill at mile 20-21 - the course's toughest challenge
    • •Boston College students create electric atmosphere on the climb
    • •Fast descent through Brookline after conquering Heartbreak
    • •Right turn onto Boylston Street for iconic finish

    Course Elevation Profile

    Total Gain: 853 ft | Total Loss: 1,312 ft

    Race Calculator

    42.195 km (26.2 mi) • Boston, MA

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    Race Day Tips

    Expert advice for race day success

    • •Don't be tempted by the fast downhill start - save energy for the hills
    • •The first 10 miles feel easy, but you'll pay for early speed on the Newton Hills
    • •Break Newton Hills into four separate climbs mentally
    • •Heartbreak Hill isn't the steepest, but it comes at mile 20 when you're tired
    • •After Heartbreak Hill, it's mostly downhill - let gravity help you to the finish
    • •Qualify early - Boston fills up fast and requires qualifying times

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    Boston Marathon FAQs