Results/Photos

Date: Sept. 27, 2026 Participant: James Politz #11065 Race: 2026 Boulderthon Marathon Distance: 26.2 miles

Steady Middle Miles Power a Patient Marathon Finish James Politz completed the 2026 Boulderthon Marathon in 5:34:21. His pace fluctuated through the race, with a strong six-mile stretch from mile 2 to mile 8 averaging roughly 11:00 per mile, the best sustained running of his day. After a slower middle portion, he closed with purpose, running miles 23 through 26 in about 11:23 per mile, showing a solid final push to the line. Politz's marathon carried him past Boulder Reservoir and through Boulder County backroads before finishing on the historic Pearl Street Mall, a fitting stage for the effort. Racing at over 5,000 feet of elevation, and on a 2026 course redesigned to cut net elevation gain by about 40 percent, his ability to rally in the final miles stands out as a strength to build on for future marathons.