McKirdy Micro Race Series: MicrOTQ

For runners seeking to unlock their personal best and chase ambitious qualifying standards, the McKirdy Micro Race Series: MicrOTQ offers an unparalleled marathon experience on March 29, 2026, in Valley Cottage, NY. Held at scenic Rockland Lake State Park, this event is renowned for its meticulously crafted, virtually flat 26.2-mile course. Athletes will navigate a smooth, well-maintained 2.94-mile looped paved bike path that features minimal elevation gain, totaling approximately 13 feet across the entire race. The course is even marked with a tangent line to ensure the most efficient route, all within a beautiful setting where spectators can easily cheer on runners lap after lap.

The MicrOTQ marathon is specifically designed by runners, for runners, with a singular focus on achieving fast times and qualifying for major events like the Boston Marathon or even the USATF Olympic Trials. The series has a proven track record, with a 2023 edition producing more Olympic Trials Qualifiers than any other race that year, including two Olympians, and seeing a high percentage of participants achieve personal bests. Participants can expect a truly "elite experience" regardless of their pace, with features such as personalized fluid stations offering individual bottle service, dedicated pacers, and a World Athletics Certified course. Typical race day conditions in late March include comfortable highs around 52°F and lows near 34°F, with a minimal 12% chance of precipitation, providing an ideal climate for a breakthrough performance. This small-field event cultivates a focused atmosphere, even implementing strict rules like a ban on headphones to ensure undivided concentration on the race.