Runners will face a starting temperature of 65°F, rising to 87°F by race end. Winds from the SW will be strong at 21 mph, with gusts up to 31 mph. Given the heat, participants should adjust their pace conservatively and stay hydrated throughout the race.

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Distance: 26.2mi

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Race Info

The Prairie Fire Marathon began in 2010, when the Wichita Sports Commission took over what had been the Wichita Marathon and added half marathon, 5K, and additional short-distance options. A spring edition launched in 2013, forming the two-race Prairie Fire Race Series held each spring and fall in Wichita, Kansas. The fall marathon and half marathon are USATF-certified and Boston Marathon qualifiers, with a flat course that crosses the Arkansas River near downtown Wichita. More than 65,000 runners have taken part in Prairie Fire events over the past 15 years.

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Race weekend

Sunday, October 11

7:10 AMMarathon (26.2 mi)

7:10 AMHalf Marathon (13.1 mi)7:30 AM5K (3.1 mi)

7:30 AMMayor's Friendly 5K (3.1 mi)

Course Map

FAQ

When is the 2026 Prairie Fire Marathon?

The 2026 Prairie Fire Marathon will be held on Sunday October 11, 2026.

Is the Prairie Fire Marathon a Boston Marathon Qualifier?

Yes, the Prairie Fire Marathon is an official Boston Marathon qualifier.

What is the time limit for the Prairie Fire Marathon?

The time limit for the Prairie Fire Marathon is 6.33 hours.

What will the weather be like for the 2026 Prairie Fire Marathon?

The forecast calls for a high of 88°F and a low of 64°F with a 0% chance of rain.

Historical Weather

Based on 17 years of data

Avg Temp

60°F

L:54° H:67°

RunScore

Conditions

Rain Freq

12%

2 of 17 yrs

Wind10mph

Dew49°F

Temperature History

Range of temperatures during race hours for each year.

Detailed History

Year	Low / High	Rain	Dew Point
2026 Prairie Fire Marathon Clear conditions throughout the day. 2026	64°/79°	-	55°
2025 Prairie Fire Marathon Partly cloudy throughout the day. 2025	66°/78°	-	55°
2024 Prairie Fire Marathon Clear conditions throughout the day. 2024	54°/71°	-	47°
2023 Prairie Fire Marathon Clear conditions throughout the day. 2023	44°/63°	-	38°
2022 Prairie Fire Marathon Partly cloudy throughout the day. 2022	50°/66°	-	45°
2021 Prairie Fire Marathon Partly cloudy throughout the day with late afternoon rain. 2021	67°/75°	-	53°
2020 Prairie Fire Marathon Clear conditions throughout the day. 2020	61°/76°	-	60°
2019 Prairie Fire Marathon Clear conditions throughout the day. 2019	39°/55°	-	32°
2018 Prairie Fire Marathon Cloudy skies throughout the day with rain or snow. 2018	52°/52°	Light	52°
2017 Prairie Fire Marathon Clear conditions throughout the day. 2017	52°/72°	-	49°
2016 Prairie Fire Marathon Partly cloudy throughout the day. 2016	52°/59°	-	47°
2015 Prairie Fire Marathon Clear conditions throughout the day. 2015	59°/72°	-	55°
2014 Prairie Fire Marathon Becoming cloudy in the afternoon with late afternoon rain. 2014	45°/59°	-	46°
2013 Prairie Fire Marathon Becoming cloudy in the afternoon. 2013	48°/65°	-	38°
2012 Prairie Fire Marathon Clear conditions throughout the day. 2012	56°/65°	-	46°
2011 Prairie Fire Marathon Cloudy skies throughout the day with a chance of rain throughout the day. 2011	62°/63°	Light	61°
2010 Prairie Fire Marathon Partly cloudy throughout the day with rain. 2010	53°/66°	-	47°