Sun, Oct 18 · 2026Syracuse, NYSince 2011

Empire State Marathon

The Empire State Marathon runs a multi-loop course through Syracuse on a nearly flat route built for runners chasing a Boston qualifier. It's a small-field race with a generous time limit and open registration.

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EMPIRE STATE · US
Empire State
SUN, OCT 18
2026
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Race Overview

EST. 2011

The Empire State Marathon is a small, low-key race in Syracuse, and that's exactly its appeal. The field is intimate. You're not navigating thousands of runners at the start or fighting for water at aid stations. The course is multi-loop and essentially flat, running between the low 400s and just over 500 feet in elevation. What gain exists comes back down within the same stretch, so there's nothing to fear on the profile. The loops also give you a chance to read the course early and dial in your effort. Don't go out hard on loop one just because your legs feel good.

This is a genuine Boston qualifier with open registration, which is rarer than you'd think at this distance. You sign up through RunSignup, and entries through Kelleigh's Cause are available if you want to pair a race goal with a fundraising one. The weather in mid-October in Syracuse can be cool and crisp, which tends to favor fast running, but pack a throwaway layer for the start. If a PR attempt matters to you and you want a low-drama, well-certified course without the lottery headache, this one is worth a serious look.

Field size
~204
204 finishers
BQ rate
3%
Below national average
Time limit
7:00
Generous cutoff
Entry
Open
First-come registration
Course records
Men
2:34:10
Dave Cook
2021
Women
3:00:13
Siena Anstis
2018

The Course

678 ft total gain
Total ascent
678 ft
Total descent
678 ft
Net elevation
0 ft
Highest point
515 ft
Lowest point
359 ft
Course shape
Multi loop
Start and finish in one place

The course is a multi-loop with zero net elevation, so what goes up comes down within the same stretch. Total gain and loss are modest, spread across a low-altitude range between roughly 360 and 515 feet. Expect the climbs to be gradual rather than sharp. The multi-loop layout means you can scout ahead on the first pass and pace accordingly, but mental fatigue from repeated sections is real. No significant descents to bank time early; treat each loop as its own effort. This suits even-split racing well. USATF-certified, so the distance is exact.

DIFFICULTYROLLINGPR-FRIENDLYMODERATE

Race-Day Weather

10-year median
Low
40°F
High
60°F
30°MARATHON-IDEAL 4560°80°
What to expect

Mid-October in Syracuse runs cool. You'll likely start in the low 40s and finish somewhere around 60, which is close to ideal for marathon running. The morning chill is real, so bring a layer you're happy to ditch after the first mile or two. The afternoon rarely gets warm enough to cause trouble, but if you're running a slower pace you'll be out there into the warmer part of the day. Overall, this window tends to favor a fast effort.

Entry

OPEN

Open registration through RunSignup. Charity fundraising entries available through Kelleigh's Cause organization.

Register on RunSignup

Frequently Asked

7 questions
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