Minuteman BQ Marathon

The Course

The Minuteman BQ Marathon is run on the Minuteman Commuter Bikeway, a dedicated paved trail running beneath a continuous canopy of mature trees. The dense forest cover blocks direct sunlight and eliminates wind for virtually the entire 26.2 miles — you run in natural shade from start to finish, even as the morning progresses. With a flat profile and no road crossings, conditions on this course are as controlled as outdoor marathon running gets.

The course is 6.5 loops, meaning your family and friends can cheer you from designated spectator areas and see you come through every single loop — not just at the start and finish.

• Flat course — no elevation gain
• Full tree canopy — shaded, cool, and wind-protected the entire race
• Elite fuel stations — stock with your own personal drinks and nutrition
• General water stations — water provided throughout
• Portable toilets — available throughout the course
• Gear check — on site at start/finish
• Designated spectator zones — your crew sees you every loop
• Professional chip timing — with security checkpoints at Mill St. (east) and Bow St. (west) to verify all loops
• Swag — custom running singlet and finisher medal
• Post-race — snacks, refreshments, and celebrations at Hill's Hill Park Field

Pace Groups & Start Times

Runners are seeded by goal finish time and start in staggered waves. Groups may be adjusted based on registration volume.

Race Day Schedule

Boston Marathon Qualifying Standards

View the official 2027 BAA qualifying standards at baa.org →

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