The 2026 Walter Childs Marathon has concluded.

Walter Childs Marathon

Race complete
Holyoke, MA, USA · May 3, 2026
cloudy44°·55° high·Windy·Dry
7
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Race Day Weather

cloudy
44°at start
55° high
Windy
Dry

Cool conditions, moderate winds

Runners will face temperatures starting at 41°F and rising to 55°F. With a steady wind from the NW at 20 mph, pacing adjustments may be necessary, particularly in open areas. Humidity is low at 45%, allowing for a comfortable run without hydration concerns.

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Distance: 26.2mi
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Race Info

The Walter Childs Marathon, also called the Race of Champions, is held in memory of Walter H. Childs Sr., who founded the race and died in 1991. It served as the AAU National Championship and Pan American Games marathon trial in the late 1960s. The 2026 edition was the 62nd running, making it one of the oldest marathons in the United States. The course consists of six loops around Ashley Reservoir in Holyoke, Massachusetts, on a certified dirt-and-gravel surface that qualifies for Boston Marathon entry. Source

Area Map

Course Map

FAQ

When is the 2026 Walter Childs Marathon?

The 2026 Walter Childs Marathon will be held on Sunday May 3, 2026.

Is the Walter Childs Marathon a Boston Marathon Qualifier?

Yes, the Walter Childs Marathon is an official Boston Marathon qualifier.

What is the time limit for the Walter Childs Marathon?

The time limit for the Walter Childs Marathon is 5 hours.

What will the weather be like for the 2026 Walter Childs Marathon?

The forecast calls for a high of 55°F and a low of 39°F with a 0% chance of rain.

Historical Weather

Based on 7 years of data
Avg Temp
66°F
L:53° H:66°
RunScore
8
Conditions
Rain Freq
14%
1 of 7 yrs
Wind10mph
Dew41°F

Temperature History

Range of temperatures during race hours for each year.

Detailed History

YearConditionsLow / HighRainScoreResults
2026
cloudy
44°/55°-
7
2025
cloudy
61°/68°-
9
2024
rain
63°/82°Light
7
2024
cloudy
49°/52°-
8
2024
partly-cloudy-day
52°/68°-
8
2023
clear-day
55°/75°-
8
2022
clear-day
46°/65°-
8