Results/Photos

Date: Feb. 14, 2026 Participant: Ajay Perumbeti #13052 Race: 2026 Mesa Marathon Distance: 26.2 miles

Consistent Early Pace, Challenges in Later Miles Ajay Perumbeti, representing PHX Run Club, maintained a strong and consistent pace during the initial half of the 2026 Mesa Marathon. He started with an impressive 9:29 min/mile pace in the first mile and gradually settled into a steadier pace with variability reaching an elapsed pace of 10:12 min/mile by the 10th mile. Notably, Ajay placed 48th in his division during the 12th mile, demonstrating a strong section of the race. In later miles, a steady decline was observed as Ajays elapsed pace increased, reaching 13:18 min/mile by mile 18. This resulted in an overall race time of 4:58:20, averaging 11:23 min/mile. Encouragingly, Ajay's placement remained competitive, highlighting moments of effectiveness especially when considering the total field of 3509 participants. Strategically maintaining consistent pacing and focusing on late-race endurance could lead to improved times in future marathons. Excellent teamwork with PHX Run Club was evident throughout the race.