Always gotta agree with Mr Kerr. The Ascent is a high effort, but low impact event. Up may be 'hard' but down is downright brutal on the Muscles and Joints. And, if the Pikes Peak bug just happens to get you like it does most of us, the Ascent this year will qualify you for the Marathon next year. In response to: I have qualified to do the Ascent. But won't run a marathon until October to qualify for the full marathon. Should I wait and do the full or just do the Ascent ? Need help to decide. With my bad knees I only have one shot.