Last Chance BQ.2 - Grand Rapids

Lace up for your ultimate shot at Boston Marathon qualification at the Last Chance BQ.2 - Grand Rapids, taking place on Sunday, September 13, 2026, in Grand Rapids, Michigan. This premier marathon is meticulously designed for runners aiming for that coveted BQ, boasting one of the highest qualification rates in the country, hovering around 60%.

The scenic course unfolds within Secchia Meadows in Millennium Park, guiding runners along a wide, paved path that winds by the Grand River and through picturesque, heavily shaded meadows. Consisting of a flat one-mile start and finish segment, runners will then tackle six 4.04-mile loops, providing a consistent and familiar rhythm. While largely flat, the course features some gentle rolling hills, particularly in the latter half of each loop, with a notable uphill climb leading to the final finish line. Aid stations, stocked with water and Gatorade, are strategically placed at miles 1 and 3.25, ensuring frequent support as you pass each station six times. Personal water bottle tables are also available for your convenience near aid station #1.

With a 7:00 AM start, typical race day conditions in mid-September offer ideal marathon weather, with highs around 75°F and lows around 52°F, and only a 14% chance of precipitation. This focused event, limited to just 330 runners, creates a uniquely supportive atmosphere where every participant is Boston-minded. If you're ready to secure your spot in Hopkinton, the Last Chance BQ.2 - Grand Rapids provides the perfect opportunity.