Cynthia Metcalf's Staging Area

As advertised, great course to run when wanting to go for a BQ. The course had some moderate uphill first few miles but after that was mostly slight decline all the way down to the finish line. There were a few spots towards end of race as you ran under overpasses that had some uphill but luckily for short distances. Great volunteers throughout course with water and Gatorade and some fruit at stops towards end. No goo on course but luckily ran quick enough that I had enough to take me to the finish. You run parts along main thruway but runners have a good running space between cones and edge of road. Great support by police with traffic control. Expo was very basic with not a lot of vendors and a quick pass through. Shuttle bus for hotel guests was super convenient and nice buses to relax on the ride out. Absolutely recommend if you are looking for a faster course with nice scenery and great weather in December

Ran the Outer Banks marathon this weekend. The weather forecast was not in our favor with rainy weather in the 50’s topped with winds of 15-20 mph. The race started 20 min late, which the frustration could be heard from the crowd of runners standing in the rain. I’m sure there was good reason and maybe that was communicated on the intercom but you really could not hear it. The overall course was generally flat with the only hill on the bridge. Quiet course with not a lot of spectators but the spectators and volunteers there, standing and cheering in wind and rain, hands down were awesome! Toughest part of course was running over 2 mile bridge facing winds that made you feel you were running on a hamster wheel. On a sunny day with low wind, I’m certain it’s an amazing course to run. Course is flat with a lot of nature views and limited to no traffic. About 5 miles on the tail end of race is run on sidewalk which can be a bit tricky on tired legs where there are bumps or cracks in pavement and also made for a narrow running track on the out and back section. Expo was quick in and out. Great medical support for the runners that had some struggles due to some of cold and wet run – including my sister. They took amazing care of her to get her back to good. Id like to give this one another shot as think it could be good if the weather is in your favor.