Leading Ladies Marathon
Leading Ladies Marathon gives runners a downhill Black Hills race into Spearfish, with a women-centered identity and strong qualifier potential.
Quick facts
- Women-centered marathon weekend in Spearfish.
- Downhill Black Hills course profile.
- USATF-certified Boston Qualifier with about 2,261 feet of net drop.
- Smaller field than most large fall qualifiers.
About the Leading Ladies Marathon
Leading Ladies is a distinctive South Dakota marathon built around a downhill route and a women-focused race weekend. It is especially relevant for runners seeking a smaller qualifier.
Course
The marathon descends through Black Hills scenery toward Spearfish. The downhill profile can be fast, but the sustained grade rewards runners who protect their quads early.
Race-day weather
Late August in western South Dakota can start cool and turn sunny or warm. Canyon shade helps, but hydration still matters over the final miles.
Past Leading Ladies Marathon dates and results
| Year | Date | Status | Results |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | Sunday, August 23, 2026 | Completed | Open results |
| 2025 | Sunday, August 17, 2025 | Completed | Open results |
| 2024 | Sunday, August 18, 2024 | — | — |
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Leading Ladies Marathon FAQ
When is the Leading Ladies Marathon?
We're waiting for the finalized date for the 2027 Leading Ladies Marathon. The most recent running was on Sunday, August 23, 2026.
Is Leading Ladies Marathon a Boston qualifier?
Yes. Leading Ladies Marathon is a Boston Marathon qualifier. To use the result, you must run the certified full-marathon course within the qualifying window and meet the current standard for your age and gender. Meeting the standard lets you apply but does not guarantee entry, and net-downhill courses can receive a time adjustment under current B.A.A. rules. Review the Boston qualifying times and downhill-course rules, or browse upcoming Boston qualifier marathons.
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