If you’re looking for a fast course with generally pretty perfect running temps, then add the Phoenix Mesa Marathon to your list. I’ve completed the half multiple times and have lots of friends and athletes who do the full when looking for that Boston Qualifying time. Let’s look at why!
5500 to 1000 feet = automatic PR, right?!
That’s what everyone seems to believe about training high and running low.
And a race that isn’t a massive downhill, but instead a slow and gradual descent over the full course is a MASSIVE win. While steep downhill courses like the Revels can be fast, they are often super hard on the body and athletes come away pretty miserable.
Phoenix Mesa Marathon Tips
With any race, I have a few standard recommendations for our athletes:
- Try not to walk around a ton before the race
- Have your pre-race dinner and morning of meal with you or planned out, so you know it’s food you tolerate
- Don’t get sucked in to driving the course 🙂 you should have been training for whatever the elevation looks like and that’s all you can control
The EXPO has grown, so just remember to take advantage of seats to sit down. A fun outdoor space with a number of different vendors, free chair massages, Kind Bars, snacks from Sprouts and a band. Made for a great way to…
