California International Marathon vs Chicago Marathon
The BQ-chaser's dilemma. Chicago is flatter overall and a bigger event; CIM's net drop, December cool, and qualifier-dense field make it the sharper tool for a Boston cutoff buffer. For most BQ hunters, CIM wins on the margins.
| California International Marathon | Chicago Marathon | |
|---|---|---|
| PR score | 9/10 | 9/10 |
| Month | December | October |
| Elevation gain | 202 m | 74 m |
| Net elevation | -104 m | +1 m |
| Median start temp | 5°C | 10°C |
| Hot-year risk | Low | Moderate |
| Finishers | ~9,000 | ~52,000 |
| Entry | Sells out fast | Qualifier or lottery |
| Boston qualifier | Yes | Yes |