The 2026 Leading Ladies Marathon has concluded.

Leading Ladies Marathon

Race complete

Spearfish, SD, USA · August 23, 2026

64°·84° high·Breezy·Dry

Race Day Weather

64°at start

86° high

Breezy

Dry

Warm start, gradual heat rise

Runners will face a starting temperature of 64°F, climbing to 86°F by race end. Winds will be light from the E throughout, reaching a max of 9 mph. With humidity at 57%, it’s advisable to start conservatively and hydrate frequently as the heat builds.

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Distance: 26.2mi

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Race Info

The Leading Ladies Marathon, also raced as the Dakota Spirit Marathon, starts at the Lead Country Club and finishes at Spearfish City Park, running a net-downhill course through Spearfish Canyon in South Dakota's Black Hills. The marathon course is USATF certified (SD16301BK) and is a Boston Marathon qualifier. Race weekend also includes a half marathon, 10K and 5-leg marathon relay on Sunday and a 5K on Saturday. The event began as a women-only marathon and now welcomes all runners under the companion Dakota Spirit Marathon name. Source

Website

Course Map

FAQ

When is the 2026 Leading Ladies Marathon?

The 2026 Leading Ladies Marathon will be held on Sunday August 23, 2026.

Is the Leading Ladies Marathon a Boston Marathon Qualifier?

Yes, the Leading Ladies Marathon is an official Boston Marathon qualifier.

What is the time limit for the Leading Ladies Marathon?

The time limit for the Leading Ladies Marathon is 6 hours.

What will the weather be like for the 2026 Leading Ladies Marathon?

The forecast calls for a high of 89°F and a low of 64°F with a 100% chance of rain.

Historical Weather

Based on 6 years of data

Avg Temp

71°F

L:62° H:78°

RunScore

Conditions

Rain Freq

0 of 6 yrs

Wind10mph

Dew55°F

Temperature History

Range of temperatures during race hours for each year.

Detailed History

Year	Low / High	Rain	Dew Point
2026 Leading Ladies Marathon Clear conditions throughout the day with early morning rain. 2026	64°/84°	-	61°
2025 Leading Ladies Marathon Clear conditions throughout the day. 2025	60°/81°	-	62°
2024 Leading Ladies Marathon Clear conditions throughout the day. 2024	63°/81°	-	64°
2023 Leading Ladies Marathon Clearing in the afternoon with early morning rain. 2023	58°/64°	-	50°
2022 Leading Ladies Marathon Clear conditions throughout the day. 2022	61°/84°	-	51°
2021 Leading Ladies Marathon Clear conditions throughout the day. 2021	66°/72°	-	45°