My Profile

@Bluebird46360

Michigan City, IN Raving since 2018 50 States hopeful/finisher, Marathon Maniacs #14478 Active 6 months, 1 week ago

About Me

  • Running club(s):

    Marathon Maniacs, Calumet Regional Strides

  • Rave race:
  • Race that's calling my name:
  • I run because:

    It not only gives me freedom from the daily grind, it helps me overcome many mental barriers. As a Type 1  Diabetic, I not only have to focus on my next race and training, but I have to constantly work to manage my sugar before, during and after each run. After being misdiagnosed for several years, I am very thankful for running, as without this I may not be here today! I run because I believe I can, and I will!

My Races

Organize, track & review your races and personal bests here.

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Half Marathon

Marathon

Ultramarathon

(Marathon or Ultra) + Half

Marathon + Ultra

Other

Future Races

Personal Bests (2)

Race Distance Location Date Result
50K Belleville, WI Jul 29, 2023 8:07:53
Marathon Milwaukee, WI Oct 7, 2018 4:48:28

Future Races (5)

Race Distance Location Date Paid
Marathon Eugene, OR Apr 27, 2024
Marathon Anchorage, AK Aug 17, 2024
Marathon Newport, RI Oct 13, 2024
Marathon Hartford, CT Oct 19, 2024
Marathon Huntington, WV Nov 3, 2024

Past Races (60)

Race Distance Location Date Result My Raves My Performance
Marathon Dallas, TX Dec 17, 2023
Marathon Albuquerque, NM Oct 22, 2023
Marathon Jackson Hole, WY Sep 23, 2023
50K Belleville, WI Jul 29, 2023 8:07:53
Marathon Sanford, ME Jun 10, 2023 6:08:10
Marathon Springfield, VT Jun 8, 2023 6:23:04
Marathon Holyoke, MA Jun 7, 2023 6:23:05
Marathon Lincoln, NE May 7, 2023 6:03:46
Marathon St Louis, MO Apr 2, 2023 5:58:15
50K North Liberty, IN Mar 25, 2023 8:14:41
10K LaPorte, IN Mar 18, 2023
Half Marathon Little Rock, AR Mar 5, 2023
Marathon Apache Junction, AZ Feb 19, 2023 5:59:54
Marathon Rehoboth Beach, DE Dec 3, 2022 5:29:39
Marathon Manchester, NH Nov 13, 2022 5:25:59
Marathon Atlantic City, NJ Oct 23, 2022 5:17:09
Marathon Baltimore, MD Oct 15, 2022 5:40:34
50K Michigan City, IN Sep 24, 2022 8:20:00
Half Marathon Crown Point, IN Sep 18, 2022
Half Marathon Wright-Patterson AFB, OH Sep 17, 2022
Marathon Holland, MI Aug 6, 2022 6:40:47
Marathon Portage, IN Jul 11, 2022 6:36:08
Marathon Hicksville, OH Jul 9, 2022 5:56:26
Marathon Buffalo, NY May 29, 2022 6:11:02
Marathon Salt Lake City, UT Apr 23, 2022 5:59:52
Marathon Las Vegas, NV Apr 2, 2022 5:27:05
Marathon Myrtle Beach, SC Mar 5, 2022 5:55:12
Marathon Pass Christian, MS Dec 12, 2021 5:31:17
Marathon Olathe, KS Nov 6, 2021 5:43:32
Marathon Denver, CO Oct 16, 2021 5:52:05
Marathon Fargo, ND Sep 25, 2021 5:23:52
Marathon Snoqualmie Pass, WA Jul 25, 2021 5:28:16
Marathon Viborg, SD Jun 6, 2021 5:56:43
Marathon Coeur d\'Alene, ID May 30, 2021 5:40:05
Marathon Baton Rouge, LA Mar 7, 2021 5:35:10
Marathon Gulf Shores, AL Jan 31, 2021 5:25:23
Marathon Wilmington, NC Nov 8, 2020 5:43:12
Marathon York, PA Oct 11, 2020 5:20:53
Marathon Crown Point, IN Sep 13, 2020 5:22:06
Marathon Melbourne, FL Feb 2, 2020 5:17:24
Marathon Honolulu, HI Dec 8, 2019 5:59:47
Marathon Tulsa, OK Nov 24, 2019 5:31:10
Marathon Des Moines, IA Oct 20, 2019 5:38:06
Half Marathon Elroy, WI Sep 7, 2019
Marathon Lexington, KY May 18, 2019 6:15:49
Marathon Nashville, TN Apr 27, 2019 5:46:20
Marathon Virginia Beach, VA Mar 17, 2019 5:30:05
Marathon San Antonio, TX Dec 2, 2018 5:33:05
Marathon Savannah, GA Nov 4, 2018 5:33:39
Marathon Milwaukee, WI Oct 7, 2018 4:48:28
Marathon Frenchtown, MT Jul 15, 2018 6:20:02
Marathon Two Harbors, MN Jun 16, 2018 5:20:00
Marathon Kalamazoo, MI May 6, 2018 5:29:28
Marathon St Louis, MO Apr 8, 2018 5:13:33
Marathon Little Rock, AR Mar 4, 2018 5:43:45
Marathon Carlsbad, CA Jan 14, 2018 5:42:57
Marathon Indianapolis, IN Nov 4, 2017 5:04:28
Marathon Chicago, IL Oct 8, 2017 5:10:22
Marathon Cleveland, OH May 21, 2017 5:18:49
Marathon Chicago, IL Oct 9, 2016 4:59:29

My Raves

This is a small race, where everyone is welcome (no matter what distance you choose). It is very well organized by Ten Junk Miles (don’t forget to check out their … MORE

This is a small race, where everyone is welcome (no matter what distance you choose). It is very well organized by Ten Junk Miles (don’t forget to check out their podcast) and is very well supported! Packet pick-up was at the park, where there was also a local music fest and onsite free camping. There were a lot of goodies including hat, socks, shirt, etc. The course (besides the detour) was flat and the trails we very well groomed, there were many shaded areas depending on what time of day it was. Aid Stations were AMAZING! Stocked with many different items, including shots & beer 😊. The medal was nice, and the finisher pizza, pop and beer were delicious and plentiful. I really enjoyed this race & look forward to running it again – with all the encouragement and support, I think I am ready to increase my mileage from 50k to 100k.

DIFFICULTY
2
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5
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1 member marked this review helpful. Agree?

The expo was medium sized, easy to maneuver in and out of, but large enough to get any supplies that you may have forgotten, or some new running swag. Parking … MORE

The expo was medium sized, easy to maneuver in and out of, but large enough to get any supplies that you may have forgotten, or some new running swag. Parking for both the expo and race start was relatively easy, street parking (parking is free on Sundays) or nearby parking garages. There were quite a few pot-a-pots at the start, but still seemed to be long lines, get in line early. For the most part I think the course was flat with a few long inclines. The first half of the course took us through some nice neighborhoods where many residents came out to cheer on the runners. The second half was a longer out-and-back with very little shade. Traffic seemed to be flowing the entire time, but they kept us separated and highly police monitored, especially at the crossroads. Major props to the Lincoln Police Dept for taking extra measures to make sure all runners were safe from start to finish. Also, the aide stations and volunteers were wonderful, and well prepared for the high temps. The swag was pretty good, no complaints (shirt, medal and finisher food), was good but nothing to brag about.

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3 members marked this review helpful. Agree?

Packet Pickup was very easy logistics, either you could pick up the night before, or on race morning. The cost of this race was really good, I paid $40 for … MORE

Packet Pickup was very easy logistics, either you could pick up the night before, or on race morning. The cost of this race was really good, I paid $40 for 50k, of which all proceeds go to benefit Camp Millhouse, and you could register up until midnight the night before – no price increase.

Race morning, was extremely easy to get to parking and was close to start, or the rental cabins in the state park are cheap and about ½ mile walk to the start.

The 50k was 5 loops, 13.1 was 2 (with a bonus short loop), and 10k was 1 loop, which was 98% trails with some ups and downs. This year it rained most of the week before, and some on race morning (along with some snow) making the trails pretty muddy. The trails were marked with flags on course, and were easy to follow, overall distance was almost perfect especially for a trail run. Aid stations were at mile 3-ish and 6-ish that you passed several times, they had water, Gatorade, and fruit, marshmallows, pretzels. We passed by the lake, old cemetery, and Spring Mill House. Also, conquering Vargo Hill, elevation 885ft, 59 stairs (again climbing 5 times), and a few other good climbs on course. Don’t let they deter you there are a few good drops as well, and the scenery is beautiful (even on a gloomy day).

The volunteers and race director was very friendly, and welcoming, always responsive to questions.

I would certainly do this race again and look forward to running it in not so harsh weather conditions.

DIFFICULTY
4
PRODUCTION
4
SCENERY
5
SWAG
3

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This was a great smaller race, with a lot of friendly faces. Check it was quick and easy, as well as parking. They had a few potta pots at the … MORE

This was a great smaller race, with a lot of friendly faces. Check it was quick and easy, as well as parking. They had a few potta pots at the race start finish which were plenty. Trails were awesome, with great views, a lot of single track trails with a lot of twists and turns, as well as, ups and downs. They had a great spread of food (including breakfast burritos and beer) at the finish. Overall, great small race that I would certainly do again.

DIFFICULTY
4
PRODUCTION
5
SCENERY
5
SWAG
3

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Expo was small but was sufficient. Parking and buses were great! Very well organized! It was such an awesome race start with camp fires and sunrise, gravel/dirt roads for the … MORE

Expo was small but was sufficient. Parking and buses were great! Very well organized! It was such an awesome race start with camp fires and sunrise, gravel/dirt roads for the first six miles. Many rolling hills throughout the course, but no major inclines. Volunteers did a great job! Long sleeve wicking shirts and medal was perfect! I think they were even very informative with the information that they supplied on their website.

DIFFICULTY
3
PRODUCTION
4
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5
SWAG
5
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Course is flat and fairly quick. Starting with a stunning sunrise over the Atlantic Ocean. The race starts through town, then along the boardwalk on the shoreline. Later, winding through … MORE

Course is flat and fairly quick. Starting with a stunning sunrise over the Atlantic Ocean. The race starts through town, then along the boardwalk on the shoreline. Later, winding through a scenic marshland, then some old forts and forests. Back through a few more cute neighborhoods, to the final stretch on trails (which due to the rain were quite muddy – but fun!) The tunnel of flags at approx. mile 22 were cool, certainly picture worthy. Overall beautiful race, minus the rain/puddles, and the volunteers were awesome. Course is very flat and fast–if not for the mud puddles!

Post-race party was as wonderful, one of the reasons I chose this race. Tons of food & beer (even for us back of the packers)! And even a DJ and dancing!

Race medal were pretty cool, with that costal vibe. Race shirts were okay — wicking long-sleeved.

Overall, I had a blast at this race, and was a beautiful area to visit for a long weekend (beaches/ shops/hiking/ restaurants)! I hope to be back one day!

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3 members marked this review helpful. Agree?

The packet pickup was in the back of the Millennium Racing store, which was nice to stock up on last minute Gu's (or to get new gear) was an easy … MORE

The packet pickup was in the back of the Millennium Racing store, which was nice to stock up on last minute Gu’s (or to get new gear) was an easy in an out. (Extra tip: 1750 Tap House has good food/beer next door) The shirt was a nice wicking long sleeve shit. Race director was very nice & informative! I think the course was very scenic a majority of the time running around a baseball field (minor league), through some cute neighborhoods, and a few trails (which were flatter). The first 1/2 has more of your hills, and the second have tapered off a bit, minus on last hill about mile 25.5. For a hilly course I really enjoyed this course, and actually had a pretty decent pace. I would certainly do this one again!

P.S. Aide stations were great! Volunteers were very enthusiastic and water/ Gatorade was plentiful!

DIFFICULTY
4
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1 member marked this review helpful. Agree?

This was a very low key race with packet pickup either the night before or the morning of the race. There was plenty of parking and bathrooms. Race takes place … MORE

This was a very low key race with packet pickup either the night before or the morning of the race. There was plenty of parking and bathrooms. Race takes place on Tryon Farms trails and consists of 8 loops, for me I believe made the race go by faster, as you also get to pass the aide station 8 times…less gear that you have to carry. The race director was very knowledgeable and friendly as well as the volunteers. The belt buckle was awesome. I will certainly be back next year!

DIFFICULTY
3
PRODUCTION
5
SCENERY
5
SWAG
5

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This is an overall great marathon from the ease of early morning packet pickup (and registration), clean close by porta-pots, to several friendly faces. Don’t let the 16 loops scare … MORE

This is an overall great marathon from the ease of early morning packet pickup (and registration), clean close by porta-pots, to several friendly faces. Don’t let the 16 loops scare ya, it truly is not that bad and allows you to cheer on everyone on course! The aid station is one of the best I have ever seen with so many options for food/drinks. The race directors/ volunteers are extremely helpful, and treat you as if you are part of their family. I would certainly do this (or any Mainly Marathon race) again!

DIFFICULTY
1
PRODUCTION
5
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2
SWAG
5
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Expo was average, which for me was good for easy in easy out. No finisher shirt did leave me pretty bitter about this race (especially since I am making a … MORE

Expo was average, which for me was good for easy in easy out. No finisher shirt did leave me pretty bitter about this race (especially since I am making a 50 state quilt & had to spend another $20) race cost with shirt $140. Start was easy to get to (plenty of near by parking) and had plenty of bathrooms, cool fireworks! The course was nice with minimal hills, and the volunteers & police officers were awesome! Aide stations even had 5 hour energy’s. The after party was inside the convention center and had quite a bit of beer, finisher food boxes and pizza for all. The medals we just okay, the extra bottle opener was better than the medal. They do shut everything down & open roads pretty quick so maybe more challenging for the back of the pack. Overall the marathon/race itself was great, the swag just meh.

DIFFICULTY
2
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3
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4
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Expo is one of the best since COViD, with lots of giveaways. The public transportation getting to the marathon was very efficient, and easy to navigate. There were tons of … MORE

Expo is one of the best since COViD, with lots of giveaways. The public transportation getting to the marathon was very efficient, and easy to navigate. There were tons of bathrooms at the start and all throughout the course. The aid stations were plentiful, volunteers and Traffic control were awesome. A couple rolling hills at the start, and a fun down hill about mile 3, on the marathon course whenever heading east (towards the mountains) plan on up hill. Main hills at approximately 10, 15 and 20. The finish was great with bands, beer/food and free engraving (even to the back of the pack).

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The Shuttle (super nice) buses departed early morning to get us up the mountain (a bit too early with a 1.5hour wait outside for the race to start); however, in … MORE

The Shuttle (super nice) buses departed early morning to get us up the mountain (a bit too early with a 1.5hour wait outside for the race to start); however, in our race packet they did equip us with a Mylar blanket and gloves. At first after crossing the starting line you have a slight incline but with the altitude for this Indiana girl it certainly made breathing difficulty. From there was mainly all down hill, with a couple bumps in the road for the next 13 or so mile. Amazing views and I even saw some wild mustangs while in route. Aid stations were very plentiful but certainly not a spectator friendly course. The second half was less exciting and less of a drop, with the heat of the day starting to kick in. The finish line was great and after party was pretty nice too – 1 Free Beer! The medals were actually pretty cool (I didn’t think they were gonna be all that) and the finisher tshirt was nice too – very bright/colorful. Then back on the bus to ship us back to our cars…very well organized! I would have to say this is the sorest I have been in 34 marathons, with no downhill training.

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My Media

2 members marked this review helpful. Agree?

Information was well put together and very informative. Packet pickup was just that (not an expo), with a few additional items for sale. Shirts were orange cotton with an okay … MORE

Information was well put together and very informative. Packet pickup was just that (not an expo), with a few additional items for sale. Shirts were orange cotton with an okay design on them (I am not a big fan of the cotton or orange). The shuttle buses were very organized, and accommodating, allowing us to stay on them up until the race started. The start was on the Oceanside as the sun began to come up- very beautiful! The course was pretty much a straight route for 24 miles…on one side the beautiful coastline and on the other a steady line of traffic (we ran in one lane of a 4 lane divided highway). Again for 24 miles…then finally at mile 24 you get to go up an on ramp, but at 25.5 you get to go down! Finish was in the MGM Park stadium which was pretty cool! The after party was great with pretty much endless beer and food (even for the back of the pack). I loved the Gumbo soup! Oh yeah, the medals were awesome with a crab that opened up!

Side note, I did enjoy visiting Biloxi with beaches, casinos, shows, Yummy food options and more!

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2 members marked this review helpful. Agree?

The expo was small, but very nicely presented - even saw a 50 stater table there. I like the shirt design which was wicking and matched the character theme (this … MORE

The expo was small, but very nicely presented – even saw a 50 stater table there. I like the shirt design which was wicking and matched the character theme (this year it was the year of the lion). The course went into a nice neighborhood (but with a lot of hills), and several different bike trails. I feel like we were on a lot sidewalks and roadways – traffic control was great!!! Aide stations were good with water/ Gatorade, and plenty of Gu especially in those later miles. Course was well marked with mile markers and pink arrows on the ground. I absolutely Loved the medals this year (except they had wrong date/year – understandable due to COViD cancellations). I enjoyed dressing up with my group as Wizard of Oz characters. The announcer/DJ did a great job calling out finishers, while keeping the music rockin’. The post-race food was good (burritos), but unfortunately no beer. However, the Red Crow Brewing is right down the street and has plenty of cold beer and space!

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The expo was pretty good, with a one way circle walk-a-bout...we attended Thursday night which cut traffic immensely, allowing us more time at each vendor. Thankfully we flew out early … MORE

The expo was pretty good, with a one way circle walk-a-bout…we attended Thursday night which cut traffic immensely, allowing us more time at each vendor. Thankfully we flew out early and did some hiking (manitou Incline) before the marathon to help with the altitude. The race itself seemed relatively flat…down Colfax Ave, through the Fire Station and Broncos stadium (not once but twice), along the river, and around a large park. I enjoyed running this one with a good friend and finally about mile 22 we got to shared a beer together on course that a spectator gave us. The medals were GREAT! Also the tshirt was a nice (wicking). The after party was also pretty good, with a free beer & a seltzer. Huge Huge PROPs to the Denver Police Department which did an absolutely wonderful job with an open course!!!

DIFFICULTY
2
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5
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2
SWAG
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For this Indiana girl the scenery sure beats corn fields! The tunnel was in the first 1/4 mile and was about 2.5 miles long (stay in the middle and take … MORE

For this Indiana girl the scenery sure beats corn fields! The tunnel was in the first 1/4 mile and was about 2.5 miles long (stay in the middle and take good headlamp/flashlight, it is dark and uneven). The course of as very very gradual, for me no additional pain, besides the normal. Lol! Beautiful wild flowers along side the course with the huge towering mountains in the background for a majority of the run! Loved the medal and the tank! Packet pick up was fast, smooth and easy! The after party was okay, no beer or much food, , but there is a cool spot about 1 mile down the road MT SI Tavern, with some pretty good food!

DIFFICULTY
2
PRODUCTION
3
SCENERY
5
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5
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No expo but they did have a pasta dinner the night before the race. We stayed on the property which rooms were very nice (with access to a community kitchen … MORE

No expo but they did have a pasta dinner the night before the race. We stayed on the property which rooms were very nice (with access to a community kitchen area and to the lake, including kayaks and SUP – no xtra charge). The volunteers and race director was extremely friendly! Communication was great! The race was on mainly dirt roads starting before daybreak due to the extreme temperatures. Medals were okay, but tshirts were nice wicking! Price of race was really good! And, they had a pork chop dinner after the marathon which was awesome! Just the overall feel of this small race makes me want to run it again and again!

DIFFICULTY
4
PRODUCTION
5
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3
SWAG
4
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Packet pickup was well organized, quick and easy allowing runners and option to enjoy the great city and lakeside of Couer D’Arlene. (Just make sure to feed those parking meters … MORE

Packet pickup was well organized, quick and easy allowing runners and option to enjoy the great city and lakeside of Couer D’Arlene. (Just make sure to feed those parking meters – reasonably priced). The marathon it’s self was very scenic and beautiful views of the lake…with a few good hills. At one point the road up/down hill was uneven making it a little more difficult. The course was very well marked with different colored signs/tape/arrows for each race (26.2, 13.1, 10k, 5k). I would certainly say while the first half had more hills it also had the better views and some shade, as race day was quite warm. Aide stations were well stocked with water, Gatorade (even low carb), GUs, Vaseline, and other necessities. The volunteers were amazing! The finish was at McEuen Park which allowed for runners to lay out and picnic in the grassy field. The food was great and they had 15 min stretching tables. Awesome sponsors! No beer this year -but 1 block up was tons of restaurants and bars to celebrate. I like the shirts a long sleeve T-shirt, with actually decent colors for everyday wear. The only part I did not like of this race was the medal – I ran 26.2 miles to get a real medal not one I have to run two other races to piece together to complete. Until next time…stride on!

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1 member marked this review helpful. Agree?

Great Covid precautions from properly placed cones in each corral to social distance runners, mask requirements, to flag starting 5 people at a time. The course was mainly flat, with … MORE

Great Covid precautions from properly placed cones in each corral to social distance runners, mask requirements, to flag starting 5 people at a time. The course was mainly flat, with no major hills (only one bridge that you go over twice), with great views of some very nice homes and the LSU campus (lake, Mike the Tiger and stadium). I was actually surprised by all the spectators and added support (snacks, mimosas, beer, bloody marys) along the course. The finish was in front of the capitol building which made for good finisher photos (which were free to download), the medal was really nice as well…with many other options to earn extra bling. We also received prepackaged jambalaya which was delicious (no beer at finish).

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1 member marked this review helpful. Agree?

Love the COViD drive through packet pickup, for us was very smooth and simple, volunteers were very friendly. Race start was very well spaced (with several different starting corrals). I … MORE

Love the COViD drive through packet pickup, for us was very smooth and simple, volunteers were very friendly. Race start was very well spaced (with several different starting corrals). I think the race directors did a great job keeping it COViD safe, while maintaining a bit of normalcy. We stayed at the Comfort Inn which was less than a mile from the start, reasonably priced & worked out perfect for family/spectating as it was along the course. Most of the run was through the state park with was very nice – mostly paved trails (and wooden bridges/walk way) , Cypress (?) trees were amazing, and I even got to see an alligator. It was great seeing so many fellow Maniacs & Fifty Stater’s on course! I can not say enough about the after party at Hangouts, 2 free beers, and a boxed lunch – tons of open space to social distance outside! I would love to do this race again if just to see what the normal after party would look like! They also had a Big Beach marathon sand castle for pictures afterwards! Overall I would give this race an A+!

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The race production was very well organized especially with all the COVID restrictions. They did temp checks before entering the corral, which had 50- people start every 20 minutes or … MORE

The race production was very well organized especially with all the COVID restrictions. They did temp checks before entering the corral, which had 50- people start every 20 minutes or so. Had to wear masks at the start/finish, removing only to run. Trash cans placed appropriately so volunteers did not have to worry about the spread of germs, water bottles/ power aide, and Gu’s laid out on the table for runners to grab. The marathon was 4 loops around the USS North Carolina Battleship, going over 2 bridges each loop (2 loops for the 1/2, and 1 loop for the 10K). Not sure if they will do a marathon again, I believe this was just added for this year, but I am glad to have gotten it in. Wilmington in general is a very cute town to visit, and enjoyed being able to sit by the poolside in November after a hot run (finish 79 degrees), another perk was no car was needed (we were able to Uber or walk anywhere we needed to go). PS Medal was really cool!

DIFFICULTY
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This is an absolutely gorgeous course!!! Check in at the YMCA was very quick and easy (very friendly). Big shout out for the race director as she responded to emails … MORE

This is an absolutely gorgeous course!!! Check in at the YMCA was very quick and easy (very friendly). Big shout out for the race director as she responded to emails quickly, and was very helpful! Due to Covid they did a staggered start that was very controlled, and well spaced. Again, I can not say enough about the wonderful scenery along this course carrying a lot of history a long the way (from the historic tunnel, seeing the town that founded ice cream, to the town that Lincoln came through to delivery the Gettysburg address (and later his body). The trail was very well groomed, with crushed compacted stone along the route – good for both trail runners and road trip runners.Traffic control and hydration stations were very well manned. The medal was nice, and the bagged meal (COViD pre-caution) was awesome! Would certainly recommend this race! A+

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The course was an out & back twice, which marathoners started 1 hour before the half marathoners, so it was fun getting encouragement from them on course. Most of the … MORE

The course was an out & back twice, which marathoners started 1 hour before the half marathoners, so it was fun getting encouragement from them on course. Most of the race was on a bike trail, so it was very nice (flat) course with a great scenery. I could see many people PR’ing on this course. This race actual had a time limit of 5 hours, but the timers stayed open for me and my mom to finish. Very small marathon field – 10 finishers.

DIFFICULTY
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Expo was small but nice! Easy in and out! With packet pickup available the day of the race as well. Parking was very easy (even for out of towner’s) -short … MORE

Expo was small but nice! Easy in and out! With packet pickup available the day of the race as well. Parking was very easy (even for out of towner’s) -short walk to race start. Plenty of bathrooms at race start/finish, as well positioned along the course. Aid stations were perfectly placed. Highly recommend a throw off for the cool start. The bridges allowed to stretch out with up/down hill while the rest of the course was (pancake) flat. Traffic control was great, as well as the musical diversity! Volunteers A+…swag was good including a wicking long sleeved shirts, avocados, tons of free beer, cute medal (although I honestly was not a fan). Race director was very friendly, and humble! I especially enjoyed the scenery (saw dolphins feeding off the back of a boat). Very cute town!

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For me this was an okay marathon, not my favorite (besides the vacation area) by all means. The major sponsor is the Japanese Airlines, so they do cater to the … MORE

For me this was an okay marathon, not my favorite (besides the vacation area) by all means. The major sponsor is the Japanese Airlines, so they do cater to the more multi cultural groups a little more. Of which, the majority of the people on course and at the expo did not speak English. The course itself was great, with beautiful views, loved running at night with all the grand Christmas displays in the city. Course had a few hills, but more of just steady inclines, to me this was not too bad. It was a very hot & humid race, but no body can control the weather. The water stops were good, and always had water & Gatorade ready, as well as cold sponges later in the race (also Honey Stingers). Again the after race party was just okay, with large tents set up for Japanese Airlines groups. I really liked the gold finishers medals, on a rainbow ribbon. Also, enjoyed the short walk after the marathon into Waikiki for lunch and a quick dip in the ocean.

DIFFICULTY
3
PRODUCTION
3
SCENERY
4
SWAG
4

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The expo was nice size (not too big not too small), the post card in the mail added a nice personal touch. Race start was easy to get to! (Tons … MORE

The expo was nice size (not too big not too small), the post card in the mail added a nice personal touch. Race start was easy to get to! (Tons of marathon maniacs) The first part of the course had quite a few long inclines winding through beautiful neighborhoods. Mile 12 was race on the blue track of Drake University. The second half began in a nature trail (paved) leading to Waterworks Park then circling around Grays Lake crossing the bridge leading us back in town to the finish.

Aid stations were plentiful, and really like the mobile aid stations on bikes with everything from biofreeze, Kleenex, to Vaseline.

Medals were pretty heavy and had a nice design/color. We also got a nice zip up finishers jacket. Post race party was good with free massages and 2 free beers (however, closes down about the 5 1/2 hour mark, not great for slower runners).

Overall, great race, great production with very friendly people!

DIFFICULTY
3
PRODUCTION
5
SCENERY
5
SWAG
5
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1 member marked this review helpful. Agree?

This is a small hometown race with nice perks especially for the price (wicking shirts, fresh apple dumplings (at the finish), and more. The race director made the race very … MORE

This is a small hometown race with nice perks especially for the price (wicking shirts, fresh apple dumplings (at the finish), and more. The race director made the race very personalized and was extremely nice and accommodating. Race start/finish was at a park, which include a small camping area. The aide stations we laid out nicely, with very friendly volunteers. The course was nicely groomed trail run, as runners passed over several bridges, and through a lantern lite tunnel with was historical (not to mention a few degrees cooler than outside, which felt great). The medals were okay (again this is a small race, with minimal race entry fees). I would certainly run this race again.

DIFFICULTY
3
PRODUCTION
4
SCENERY
4
SWAG
4

1 member marked this review helpful. Agree?

The expo is nice but very small, great to get in and out! The race start was smooth, bathroom lines and parking were not too bad at all. The course … MORE

The expo is nice but very small, great to get in and out! The race start was smooth, bathroom lines and parking were not too bad at all. The course had rolling hills with several house farms surrounding, very beautiful! Got to see a few baby colts. Water stops were great with water, sword and ice, very friendly volunteers. Again, never a line for the porta potties. The temperature made it difficult for me hitting 90 degrees, the week before in the 50s (you never know what you are gonna get). Only improvement I would suggest would be timing mats, especially at the out and back. Overall great race, great views and, great people!

DIFFICULTY
4
PRODUCTION
5
SCENERY
5
SWAG
4
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1 member marked this review helpful. Agree?

When they tell you this course is hilly, you better believe it. I went to this race with a group of 8 runners, all of which times were certainly not … MORE

When they tell you this course is hilly, you better believe it. I went to this race with a group of 8 runners, all of which times were certainly not their best, but we finished and that what counts. I am not a big fan of RNR races, as I feel the race swag is cheap (small medal), and not as much crowd support, a lot of out and backs. The NFL draft was the same weekend, the city was more geared towards them than runners. But, there was a lot of money which was raised for St. Jude Hospital, so this is certainly a plus.

DIFFICULTY
5
PRODUCTION
3
SCENERY
3
SWAG
2

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I think that this was overall a great race! The course was very flat with a repeat hill about mile 16/22 (bridge) which I felt gave me a chance to … MORE

I think that this was overall a great race! The course was very flat with a repeat hill about mile 16/22 (bridge) which I felt gave me a chance to stretch out my legs/hips. I was a very windy race (off the ocean), but who can control the weather. J&A Race did an awesome job of production, as this was very well organized race with tons of extra swag (blanket, hat, and a beautiful medal). The after party was great with tons of beer (4 free), and stew. The bands were great, we had a lot of fun doing this race, and will certainly be back again! Considering I was sick all weekend, my time was not too bad…

DIFFICULTY
2
PRODUCTION
5
SCENERY
3
SWAG
5

1 member marked this review helpful. Agree?

I really enjoyed this course, while it had a few minor hills, it have some beautiful views. This year was warm, and course offered minimal shade. For me I think … MORE

I really enjoyed this course, while it had a few minor hills, it have some beautiful views. This year was warm, and course offered minimal shade. For me I think it was one of the better RNR courses that I have done. The metal was nice, but not TEXAS sized as one would think. Expo was just okay. I feel it had great community support, and a fun after party.

DIFFICULTY
4
PRODUCTION
4
SCENERY
5
SWAG
4

2 members marked this review helpful. Agree?

I really enjoyed the first half of the marathon running through the Historic Savannah streets, greeted by several spectators. However, I would have ran the first half twice rather than … MORE

I really enjoyed the first half of the marathon running through the Historic Savannah streets, greeted by several spectators. However, I would have ran the first half twice rather than the second half which was a lot of out and backs…the highway really threw my mental game off. Aid stations and finishers medals were good, but the T-shirt’s design just didn’t cut it (a giant peach with a headband).

DIFFICULTY
3
PRODUCTION
3
SCENERY
3
SWAG
3

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This was truly a great race! Nice course that was not too hard...pretty flat, with nice down hills. Perfect amount of participants, as I never felt over crowded, nor did … MORE

This was truly a great race! Nice course that was not too hard…pretty flat, with nice down hills. Perfect amount of participants, as I never felt over crowded, nor did I feel alone. Happy to have PR’d on this race!

DIFFICULTY
2
PRODUCTION
5
SCENERY
5
SWAG
5

1 member marked this review helpful. Agree?

For me this was a very difficult course, between the heat and the hills...however, the views along this course were breathe taking! Travel is a bit difficult, and rooms are … MORE

For me this was a very difficult course, between the heat and the hills…however, the views along this course were breathe taking! Travel is a bit difficult, and rooms are expensive…I found a cheap room, but will never advise anyone to go here (America’s Best Value Inn); not air conditioning, no coffee, the floors were nasty, I have absolutely nothing good to say about this place. The expo was kinda cute (outside), with a farmers market right next to it. Medals were pretty cool!!! It was a lot of fun tubing, as there is not much else to do, got tube at Ace Hardware $16, and took free city bus to drop point, floated back…very relaxing, fun and inexpensive. Volunteers were awesome!

DIFFICULTY
4
PRODUCTION
5
SCENERY
5
SWAG
5
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Great Swag & Beautiful Medals! The course was a little confusing...had some hills, but were not that bad. Loved popsicle hill, was much needed after a long trudge up hill … MORE

Great Swag & Beautiful Medals! The course was a little confusing…had some hills, but were not that bad. Loved popsicle hill, was much needed after a long trudge up hill towards the end of the race.

DIFFICULTY
3
PRODUCTION
5
SCENERY
4
SWAG
5

1 member marked this review helpful. Agree?

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