Expo was rather basic. Other runners said expo was better in previous years. Swag was average. Parking at race was convenient near bus loading. Paid for VIP bus loading at … MORE
Expo was rather basic. Other runners said expo was better in previous years. Swag was average. Parking at race was convenient near bus loading. Paid for VIP bus loading at 5:15. Actually bus did not load until after 5:45 and made us get off when arrived. No toilet paper in bus bathroom. Drone show at start of race was fantastic. Course was good but a bit hilly especially mile 7. Very sunny day. Good number of volunteers.
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Above average marathon
Expo was rather basic. Other runners said expo was better in previous years. Swag was average. Parking at race was convenient near bus loading. Paid for VIP bus loading at … MORE
Expo was rather basic. Other runners said expo was better in previous years. Swag was average. Parking at race was convenient near bus loading. Paid for VIP bus loading at 5:15. Actually bus did not load until after 5:45 and made us get off when arrived. No toilet paper in bus bathroom. Drone show at start of race was fantastic. Course was good but a bit hilly especially mile 7. Very sunny day. Good number of volunteers.
Not a fan, except for the volunteers
The volunteers were the best part of this race- they were amazing! In the later miles when my legs were starting to get sore I stopped to get some icy … MORE
The volunteers were the best part of this race- they were amazing! In the later miles when my legs were starting to get sore I stopped to get some icy hot and the volunteer rubbed in into my calf for me. It was so kind and it felt so good! It really helped me run pain free for a few more miles. They offered to spray us with sunscreen, they gave out baggies of ice, and at one point some people were standing by the road misting runners with hand-squeeze water bottles! The support was the best I’ve ever experienced. The little communities that were out cheering us on were really fabulous too! The aid station and cheer section at Veyo was one of the best. This was helpful since they were at the bottom of the biggest and longest (mile-long) hill on the course. We went back to Veyo for pies after the race. They were awesome!
For a “downhill” course, there were a lot of uphill sections, flats and then steep downhills. I’d call it more of a hilly course, lots of up and down.
The medal at the end is made from local rock, so each one is unique. That’s cool. The shirt is ugly, but race shirts usually are. The bus at 3 am to wait around for a race that starts at 7 am isn’t awesome either. So, overall, I can’t say I was a fan of this race. It was fine, but not my favorite. It would be a good excuse to vacation in southern Utah, if you’re looking for a race to do in Utah.
Over-rated and Hot
I'd heard a lot about how great this marathon is but if you've done any other well organized race it doesn't live up to the hype. Pro's: The first half … MORE
I’d heard a lot about how great this marathon is but if you’ve done any other well organized race it doesn’t live up to the hype.
Pro’s: The first half of the race is really pretty
Con’s: This is a pretty small race and yet they make you bus up to the start between 3 and 4:30am. It’s really cold at the start and nothing happening so you’re just sitting on the road waiting for hours to start. They have big bonfires lit but there’s so much smoke you end up with smoke inhalation before the race even begins. The race started at 7 but I wish it had started earlier because it gets HOT. The second half of the race is not at all pretty or interesting. You’re just out there baking in the sun running on a highway. The water stations play Mormon sermons – um what?! I get that you’re in Utah but I found that completely depressing and un-motivating. Overall this race was a let-down for me.
Hot! Hot! Hot! Did I mentation Hot?
I loved and disliked a lot about this race so I will break this out in two parts (Pros & Cons). Pros - The participant size of this race makes … MORE
I loved and disliked a lot about this race so I will break this out in two parts (Pros & Cons).
Pros – The participant size of this race makes the beginning exciting and energy filled. The aid stations were plentiful and had everything you needed to get you to the finish line, I personally was very grateful for the Icey Hot offered every 3 or so miles. The scenery is beautiful, although you don’t get much of it until the back half of the race.
Cons – The expo is very small so you didn’t get to enjoy in some of the early festivities that some races offer. The medals are cool with the local stone used to make the actual medal part but the ribbon and the race bibs are very plain for a large race like this. The Finish Line needs to offer spectator viewing from both sides instead of just one side since the turn out is so large. The start time is at 7am and it really should be early to avoid the St. George heat, I couldn’t imagine being out in the heat any longer than I had to so I feel bad for those that were in it more than 4 hours.
A Great Race but Not as Easy as it Looks
This race is not as easy as the course elevation map makes it appear. Yes its a downhill course, but there are some uphills too. Everyone knows about the monster … MORE
This race is not as easy as the course elevation map makes it appear. Yes its a downhill course, but there are some uphills too.
Everyone knows about the monster hill at mile 7 in Veyo. After you get to the crest, it levels off and then continues to climb for at least another mile, albeit at a smaller grade. Don’t make the mistake of thinking you are in the free and clear after the crest at Veyo.
The rollers that come between 16-24 are killers too – save some energy for those. then the course flattens out once it gets into town but the crowds show up and are enthusiastic.
This isn’t the most spectator friendly course – its hard to get to any viewing areas before mile 24. But they are there. Classic desert scenery, so if that isn’t your thing, you may want to skip this race. The expo was great and race morning was well organized. The start line had bonfires to stand by to keep us warm. Aid stations were well stocked and had helpful volunteers and were frequent – every 2 miles.
It is a great race, close to Zion and Bryce Canyon with plenty to do in the area. St George is a well developed town with the expected chain restaurants and stores. You can find everything you need there. The finisher medal is made of the rock from the surrounding area.
Beautiful Downhill Marathon
Was a nice and low key marathon. I say low key being there werent too many crowds. Some quick notes and highlights: -Expo was well organized and easy to get … MORE
Was a nice and low key marathon. I say low key being there werent too many crowds. Some quick notes and highlights:
-Expo was well organized and easy to get in and out
-Before the race, the bonfires were key, but be aware that your clothes will smell like ash during the race
-First 7 miles were easy, miles 7-12 were TOUGH, but after that, its literally fast and downhill
-Mile 25 had washclothes which was great for the finish
Overall, fun race! Gatorade and Water and every mile marker. Number 19 in the books!
Yes, downhill, but some mean uphills too
- great course for a pr - nice downhills - some mean uphills especially around mile 7, where it is a steep mile up. some scattered uphills in the second … MORE
– great course for a pr
– nice downhills
– some mean uphills especially around mile 7, where it is a steep mile up. some scattered uphills in the second half as well
– very organized busing to the start line
Best Full Marathon in Utah
I've run this race twice under very different conditions. Both times it's been a very satisfying experience. The course is beautiful all the way, and the support is incredible. The … MORE
I’ve run this race twice under very different conditions. Both times it’s been a very satisfying experience. The course is beautiful all the way, and the support is incredible. The course is fast, though it’s not entirely downhill, but the Veyo Hill climb comes early enough that most runners should be able to attack it with vigor. I especially like the miles near the entrance to Snow Canyon State Park. Those are some of the prettiest miles you’ll ever run. Stay warm (and dry) at the starting line and you should have a great race!
Make sure you don't miss this one!
Added this to my 2018 schedule as a Boston 2020 Qualifier just given that the date worked. It was my first St. George, but will not be my last. Absolutely … MORE
Added this to my 2018 schedule as a Boston 2020 Qualifier just given that the date worked. It was my first St. George, but will not be my last. Absolutely gorgeous course that is primarily downhill but doesn’t kill your quads. It could not be run better and St. George is a wonderful Family destination.
Beautiful course w/ lots of ups & downs
Overall, it was a beautiful course and well organized. Just because it's a net downhill course, does not mean it's easy. I enjoy some nice downhills, but it will take … MORE
Overall, it was a beautiful course and well organized. Just because it’s a net downhill course, does not mean it’s easy. I enjoy some nice downhills, but it will take a toll on your quads. There is a nasty uphill right after Veyo that seems to go on forever.
The only issues that I found were the long wait times at the race start. You have to catch a buss from the finish area to the start, which is about a 25 minute ride. You need to get there early. The race was then delayed by 30 minutes because we had to wait for the last bus to make it. It was rainy and in the mid to upper 40’s at the start. The other issue is people starting in a faster group than they should. By this point, people should know their starting pace and I shouldn’t have to dodge so many people in the beginning.
The good. Considering how there is not much civilization out there, there is decent crowd support. The aid stations were great as well, some of them offering ice packs, vaseline and icy hot rub downs. People at the finish were very helpful and offered lots of goodies and congratulations.
It was definitely a unique race.
Consistently Awesome Marathon
This was my third St. George Marathon and it was as good as ever. I ran it in 2010 in average (hot) conditions, in 2015 in very hot conditions, and … MORE
This was my third St. George Marathon and it was as good as ever. I ran it in 2010 in average (hot) conditions, in 2015 in very hot conditions, and this year (2018) in rainy and cool conditions. Each year the experience was awesome. St. George Marathon and the community there operate this event like a well oiled machine.
– Great expo for a mid-size race
– Bus loading was a cinch
– Tons of port-a-potties at the start
– Fire pits, space blankets and hot drinks at the start
– Plenty of road to warm up prior to the race
– Great rendition of National Anthem
– The start was late but this is, I think, was a complication of the weather and tons of people taking later buses.
– The course is scenic and perfect for a negative split (which I have achieved every time here)
– Aid stations are well stocked and volunteers are trained
– The finish line area is one of the best I have experienced
– Beautiful medal and ok SWAG
– Space blankets at the finish
– Massages and medal engraving at the finish
In short, this is the most organized and best large/midsize marathon in Utah. If you want a more intimate experience the best small marathon in Utah is Morgan Valley, hands down, but for the big event experience there is no beating St. George. And if you are in the BQ hunt I would not choose Revel Big Cottonwood over this race. If you run it right (negative split strategy) St. George is faster (and easier on your legs) than Big Cottonwood. IMO.
Like a well-oiled machine
Clearly St. George has been putting on this race for many years. From the bus pickup to the fire pits, blankets and coffee at the starting line to the amazing … MORE
Clearly St. George has been putting on this race for many years. From the bus pickup to the fire pits, blankets and coffee at the starting line to the amazing on-course volunteers at well-stocked aid stations to the finish line festival and welcoming crowds, this race was a great choice for me to check Utah off my list. There is plenty to do and see after the race as well. Enjoyed a full day at Zion and another full day exploring Snow Canyon State Park and other trails in the St. George area. Beautiful part of the world.
Desert Quad Killer
This race was a truly unique experience starting with huddling around fires in the start area (35 degrees out). Starting the race as the sun comes up over the desert … MORE
This race was a truly unique experience starting with huddling around fires in the start area (35 degrees out). Starting the race as the sun comes up over the desert was a sight to behold. The course is beautiful and the net elevation loss was nice but beware—it all happens over the second half so it’s a lot and your quads will be SMOKED! Course support was great and aid stations in the later portions included volunteers to run your legs down with Icy Hot. Trust me you’ll want it! The medal in unique and one of my favorites: a polished disc of the red rock from the desert in the area. The expo was pretty good-sized and well put together. The finish line scene was a let down though and there is not much to do in St. George; it was near impossible to find a place to get a post race beer. Zion National Park is super close and is worth the drive over if you are visiting for multiple days—just don’t overdo the hiking the day before the race.
Great course support! Best ever!!
Fun race, great views Ice on course Icy hot rub downs Sprinklers Ice pops Lots of goodies at the finish Cool down sprinklers at finish Good size hills (both down … MORE
Fun race, great views
Ice on course
Icy hot rub downs
Sprinklers
Ice pops
Lots of goodies at the finish
Cool down sprinklers at finish
Good size hills (both down and up)
Lots of community support
First marathon and a great experience
It was my first marathon and I don't know that I could have asked for a better one. The marathon is incredibly well-supported with awesome volunteers. Along with the normal … MORE
It was my first marathon and I don’t know that I could have asked for a better one. The marathon is incredibly well-supported with awesome volunteers. Along with the normal aid station stuff (water, Gatorade, some had snacks), there were also aid stations where they handed out Vaseline (which I was so grateful for around mile 7, when I realized the body glide I put on wasn’t going to be sufficient) and even had nurses at some aid stations putting on IcyHot wherever you needed it. I was also really grateful for the aid stations where they handed out ice, as well as the icy cold washcloths towards the end. The scenery along the course was pretty diverse and beautiful. From the meadows, to the Veyo hill/volcano, to the gorgeous red rock. Everyone was so supportive and friendly. The overall downhill was great. I’m so glad I did it!
Best Southern Utah Marathon
One of the best Marathons in the State of Utah. Fast course and extremely well organized. I'm from Northern Utah and prefer the Marathon courses in the Mountains of Northern … MORE
One of the best Marathons in the State of Utah. Fast course and extremely well organized. I’m from Northern Utah and prefer the Marathon courses in the Mountains of Northern Utah but this one might be the best Utah destination marathons. Zion’s National Park is close by and Vegas is only around 1:30 minutes away. Would recommend this to anyone.
Beautiful course
This is a well organized beautiful course. You get up early and start before the sun comes up. By mile 3 you are enjoying a beautiful sun rise to the … MORE
This is a well organized beautiful course. You get up early and start before the sun comes up. By mile 3 you are enjoying a beautiful sun rise to the left which is hitting the right sides red rock. You will hit a good hill at mile 7 and a few rolling after that but the last 4 are all down hill as you come into down town Saint George.
Awesome support
This course has a lot of runners, and hardly anyone puts themselves where they should start, so you end up elbow to elbow with people for the first five miles … MORE
This course has a lot of runners, and hardly anyone puts themselves where they should start, so you end up elbow to elbow with people for the first five miles or so. The race support is amazing! The aid stations are plentiful with everything you need including sticks with Vaseline, GU, water, Gatorade, and people there to rub icy hot on your legs. The course is mostly downhill and on the stretch throughout veyo with the big hill the entire town comes out to high five and cheer. The entire last mile there were people lined up cheering, spraying you down with water, and handing out popsclicles and soda. Great race!
Nice race
This was my 40th marathon and there was a lot of hype going into it. I think it lived up to part of the hype but not entirely. I'll preface … MORE
This was my 40th marathon and there was a lot of hype going into it. I think it lived up to part of the hype but not entirely. I’ll preface this by saying that I had run Jackson Hole Marathon three weeks earlier, which is probably the most scenic race I’ve done yet and in my top 3 favorites overall. My expectations were high given the reviews of STG.
Great expo; nice size and lots of vendors. It was crowded but bib and shirt pickup was efficient. Best Western Coral Hills was a convenient place to stay; walking distance to some good restaurants (walk to the Iceberg burger and shake place across the street after the run; giant thick milkshakes!!) and if you’re inclined, a shuttle to the park where bus loading is, plus an early 3:00am runners breakfast. I walked to Worthen Park the morning of and after the finish, only about ten minutes away on foot.
I think I was on one of the first buses out on race morning at 4:00am. Simple process. The start area had lots of bonfires ready to be lit as runners filed in. It was fun sitting there chatting with other runners, though if you’re an earlybird like I am, you’ll be there about two hours! RD had space blankets and free pairs of gloves, hot chocolate, coffee, Gatorade, and water at the starting area, though the temperature was not too cold that morning. Also TONS of portajohns which was great given the size of the race.
We started about 7 minutes late due to a bus on the course. The course itself is pretty fast, but do not underestimate the hills! There are a couple of big ones, and then some rollers later on. Once the sun comes up, there’s not much in the way of shade, and it was a warmer day this year. Great aid stations with Gatorade and water, some kind of gel if you wanted, also fruit at several of them. Towards the end in St. George there were people with Otter Pops (AWESOME in the heat), bags of ice, and wet towels. There were also misters near the end and after the finish line. Great crowd support at certain spots during the race and throughout the last 3 miles.
Scenery-wise, I guess it was just okay, in my humble opinion. Around mile 14-15 you see some beautiful red rock canyons which was stunning, but that was the highlight for me.
Overall assessment: great organization, with an RD and team that understand runners and what’s important to us. A fast course with some significant uphills but net downhill so PR potential if your’e ready. Great aid stations and support from volunteers and crew. Comfortable starting area with lots of amenities. The medal was nice and unique and the shirt is long-sleeve technical; lots of goodies in the expo bag. I think it’s definitely worth doing and is a good choice for Utah if you’re knocking out the states.
A Beautiful Run in the Desert
This year was the 40th running of the St. George Marathon and my first time at the event. It absolutely lived up to its reputation for the beauty of the … MORE
This year was the 40th running of the St. George Marathon and my first time at the event. It absolutely lived up to its reputation for the beauty of the course and the expert organization. The good things:
– Well run expo that wasn’t very large but had anything you might have forgotten to bring. I attended the first timers talk and was treated to a speaker who has run the race every year from the 1st to now. If it’s your first time, I highly recommend attending the talk.
– The bus ride to the start line was run as smooth as silk. I have to admit that my 3:15AM wake up call was tough, but the friendly volunteers and the perfectly run process of loading the buses made this part of the race completely painless.
– The hour and a half wait at just over 5000′ of elevation at the start line was made much easier by the bonfires that were lit to take the edge off the cool morning. This year’s race was actually very warm at the finish, but the start line temperatures were in the low 50’s.
– The race itself was amazing, the course was incredibly beautiful. Be prepared for plenty of uphills, though, it’s not all downhill. The hill at Veyo is no joke and the gradual climb from mile 10 through 12 is sneakily tough. There are some rolling hills around mile 22 that actually help break up some of the downhill and are a bit of a relief to your legs that have been pounded by all the downhill.
– The finish area is in a small park and definitely gets a bit congested, but the finish line food is excellent. Plenty of fruit and chocolate milk as well as ice cream which was wonderful after a warm finish.
Things to watch out for:
– Be prepared for the pounding of the downhill, do plenty of training, your quads and hamstrings will be decimated by the finish line.
– It’s very easy to go out way too fast, watch your pace and this is an easy negative split.
– This year got very warm and there is no cover on the course so once the sun was out there was no escape. I trained all summer in the Texas heat so I was OK, but the shuttle was constantly running back and forth to carry people out.
This was easily the most smoothly run of any race event I have done so far. The city of St. George is a beautiful place with very friendly people and plenty of food options if you don’t want to do the pasta dinner. I gave the spectators a 4 because you don’t see many until you get into town for the last couple of miles. But, those spectators are wonderfully full of enthusiasm and definitely give you a boost for the final miles. If you love running and running marathons, St. George is an absolute must-run.