Xenia Avenue Marathon

This race is built for runners who want a fast time without worrying about elevation. The flat terrain suits anyone chasing a personal best, particularly those training for faster efforts or building confidence in their speed work. It's a good fit for newer marathoners who aren't ready for significant climbing, and for experienced runners who want a straightforward effort where pacing and mental toughness matter more than navigating hills. If you thrive on consistent effort and steady-state running, this course rewards that approach. That said, there are real challenges to prepare for. A completely flat marathon in summer heat, especially in July in Brooklyn, means you'll be fighting the weather as much as the distance. The lack of elevation change sounds easy until mile eighteen, when the repetitive pounding catches up and your legs start to rebel. You won't get the mental break that downhills provide, and there's nowhere to hide on a straightforward road course. The course character also means less scenic variety to distract you during the hard miles in the middle and late stages. Bring serious hydration strategy and don't underestimate how exposed you'll feel on a flat, hot day with no terrain to provide psychological relief.