Walter Childs Marathon
Walter Childs Marathon is one of the country's older small marathons, a certified Boston qualifier on Ashley Reservoir's packed-dirt loops in Holyoke.
Quick facts
- USATF sanctioned event and certified Boston-qualifying course.
- Marathon and half marathon start together at Ashley Reservoir.
- Six-loop reservoir course makes pacing and aid access straightforward.
About the Walter Childs Marathon
The Race of Champions honors Walter H. Childs Sr. and has roots in AAU championship history, now run as a compact Holyoke marathon and half.
Course
The marathon uses six equal loops around Ashley Reservoir on a packed dirt and gravel surface, with a shared start for the full and half.
Race-day weather
Western Massachusetts in early May can start chilly, with damp reservoir air and a moderate warming trend through the looped race.
Past Walter Childs Marathon dates and results
| Year | Date | Status | Results |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | Sunday, May 3, 2026 | Completed | Open results |
| 2025 | Sunday, May 4, 2025 | Completed | Open results |
| 2024 | Sunday, May 5, 2024 | Completed | Open results |
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Walter Childs Marathon FAQ
When is the Walter Childs Marathon?
We're waiting for the finalized date for the 2027 Walter Childs Marathon. The most recent running was on Sunday, May 3, 2026.
Is Walter Childs Marathon a Boston qualifier?
Yes. Walter Childs 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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