My Profile

@coopgrag

Faribault, MN Raving since 2022 50 States hopeful/finisher Active 1 month, 3 weeks ago

About Me

  • Running club(s):
  • Rave race:
  • Race that's calling my name:
  • I run because:

My Races

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

50 States Map
image/svg+xml FL TX NM AZ AK CA NV UT CO OR WA ID HI OK MT WY ND SD NE KS MN IA MO AR LA MS AL GA SC IL WI MI IN OH TN KY NC WV VA PA NY ME VT NH RI CT NJ DE MD MA DC

Half Marathon

Marathon

Ultramarathon

(Marathon or Ultra) + Half

Marathon + Ultra

Other

Future Races

Personal Bests (1)

Race Distance Location Date Result
Marathon Billings, MT Sep 20, 2020 3:38:11

Future Races (0)

Race Distance Location Date Paid

Past Races (52)

Race Distance Location Date Result My Raves My Performance
Marathon Portland, ME Oct 6, 2024 4:17:45
Marathon Marlboro, VT Aug 25, 2024 4:31:31
Marathon Casper, WY Jun 2, 2024 4:50:31
Marathon Pittsfield, MA May 19, 2024 4:36:44
Marathon Warwick, RI May 13, 2024 4:51:40
Marathon Boise, ID May 4, 2024 4:37:39
Marathon Wilmington, DE Apr 21, 2024 4:33:03
Marathon Severna Park, MD Mar 24, 2024 4:29:15
Marathon Greenville, MS Feb 3, 2024 4:30:42
Marathon Houston, TX Jan 14, 2024 4:16:48
Marathon Honolulu, HI Dec 10, 2023 5:16:57
Marathon Richmond, VA Nov 11, 2023 4:22:36
Marathon Atlantic City, NJ Oct 21, 2023 4:39:26
Marathon Keene, NH Sep 24, 2023 4:24:34
Marathon Anchorage, AK Aug 20, 2023 4:36:16
Marathon Snoqualmie Pass, WA Jul 29, 2023 4:20:26
Marathon Simsbury, CT Jun 5, 2023 4:36:13
Marathon Buffalo, NY May 27, 2023 4:36:45
Marathon Pittsburgh, PA May 7, 2023 4:47:53
Marathon Las Vegas, NV Apr 1, 2023 4:27:07
Marathon Savannah, GA Feb 25, 2023 4:41:24
Marathon Baton Rouge, LA Jan 15, 2023 4:20:35
Marathon Jacksonville, FL Dec 11, 2022 4:27:12
Marathon Nashville, TN Nov 12, 2022 4:35:59
Marathon Cass, WV Oct 2, 2022 4:29:26
Marathon Santa Rosa, CA Aug 28, 2022 4:01:54
Marathon Lexington, KY Apr 9, 2022 4:33:50
Marathon Little Rock, AR Nov 21, 2021 3:57:13
Marathon Albuquerque, NM Oct 17, 2021 3:53:13
Marathon Boring, OR Sep 12, 2021 3:57:39
Marathon Provo, UT Jun 5, 2021 3:56:01
Marathon Tulsa, OK Apr 17, 2021 3:47:48
Marathon Billings, MT Sep 20, 2020 3:38:11
Marathon Hilton Head, SC Feb 8, 2020 3:55:29
Marathon Huntsville, AL Dec 14, 2019 3:52:44
Marathon Wichita, KS Oct 13, 2019 3:42:08
Marathon Cincinnati, OH May 5, 2019 3:55:21
Marathon Oracle, AZ Dec 8, 2018 4:05:14
Marathon Columbus, IN Sep 22, 2018 4:06:56
Marathon Fort Collins, CO May 7, 2017 4:28:18
Marathon Charlotte, NC Nov 12, 2016 4:12:54
Marathon Chicago, IL Oct 9, 2016 4:09:06
Marathon Kalamazoo, MI May 8, 2016 4:16:05
Marathon Kenosha, WI May 7, 2016 4:07:28
Marathon Des Moines, IA Oct 18, 2015 3:59:14
Marathon Kansas City, MO Oct 17, 2015 4:06:29
Marathon Lincoln, NE May 3, 2015 4:04:59
Marathon Sioux Falls, SD Sep 7, 2014 3:57:17
Marathon Fargo, ND May 10, 2014 3:44:16
Marathon Two Harbors, MN 2013 3:40:41
Marathon Green Bay, WI 2012 4:25:27
Marathon Minneapolis, MN 2010 3:40:56

My Raves

Well run race with a fairly easy course. Although there are rolling hills, they are spread out and the uphill sections are followed by downhills. Aid stations only have water … MORE

Well run race with a fairly easy course. Although there are rolling hills, they are spread out and the uphill sections are followed by downhills.
Aid stations only have water and Gatorade – carry your own nutrition. Course marshals could have done better at some of the spectator locations keeping the spectators back off the road. This was also a problem at the finish.
Overall – great race if you are looking to get Maine in for your 50 states. The 1st weekend of October can hold ideal weather for racing – which is why the date conflicts with many other races that weekend.

DIFFICULTY
2
PRODUCTION
5
SCENERY
4
SWAG
3

Was this review helpful?

The course follows the Green River from Marlboro, VT, to Greenfield, MA, offering a fast, mostly shaded route. The first 7 miles are significantly downhill, with a few small rollers, … MORE

The course follows the Green River from Marlboro, VT, to Greenfield, MA, offering a fast, mostly shaded route. The first 7 miles are significantly downhill, with a few small rollers, while more challenging hills appear around miles 17 and 20. The terrain alternates between packed dirt roads and pavement throughout the race.

You can pick up your race number on the morning of the event at the starting line. Check-in is straightforward, involving just number assignment and bib collection—no additional swag, aside from the wooden medal. Apparently there is a T-shirt pick-up at the finish, but it was not well marked as I missed it. Pre-race communication could have been better regarding the post-race procedures. There’s no need to visit the registration the day before.

The 2024 race enjoyed excellent weather conditions, with temperatures ranging from 50°F at the start to the mid-70s by the finish under cloudy skies. Aid stations are spaced 3 miles apart for the first 15 miles, then every 2 miles or less as you approach the finish. The stations were well-stocked, also easy to refill water bottles.
It’s an easy drive to the finish (bus pickup to the start) – from anywhere north of Springfield, MA.

DIFFICULTY
3
PRODUCTION
4
SCENERY
4
SWAG
1

1 member marked this review helpful. Agree?

The Visit Casper Marathon offers a well-organized race experience in Casper, WY. The course presents a challenge with its undulating hills in the initial 6 miles, followed by hilly urban … MORE

The Visit Casper Marathon offers a well-organized race experience in Casper, WY. The course presents a challenge with its undulating hills in the initial 6 miles, followed by hilly urban cement trails tracing the Platte River. Exiting the river area, runners traverse through expansive open spaces, battling wind and sun. While the course is generally well-marked, some sections between miles 20 and 24 lack clear signage, though the divergent paths ultimately loop back together. Markers at miles 22 and 23 were misplaced, causing brief concern about course length, yet a long mile 25 brough the course distance back to correct.

Check-in at a downtown hotel was seamless. Morning shuttles weren’t needed as I had a companion who drove to the finish. Staying within walking distance to the start was convenient. The Ford Wyoming Conference Center served as an excellent starting point, boasting ample indoor restroom facilities. Aid stations were generously stocked, even providing sunscreen and bug spray.

Despite its small size, with just 115 marathoners, runners may find themselves isolated for extended periods in the latter half of the race. The introduction of timing chips in 2024 marked a positive upgrade for participants.

DIFFICULTY
4
PRODUCTION
4
SCENERY
4
SWAG
3

Was this review helpful?

This race is held on a nice, paved rail trail with easy footing, wide enough for both runners and park guests. The course is an out-and-back, generally downhill to mile … MORE

This race is held on a nice, paved rail trail with easy footing, wide enough for both runners and park guests. The course is an out-and-back, generally downhill to mile 10, then dropping 250 feet to mile 13.1 before turning back. This makes miles 13-16 challenging, with the last 10 miles being a slight uphill. Experienced runners who pace themselves on the way out should do well. Weather in western Massachusetts can vary this time of year, so be prepared for race temperatures to rise quickly due to the relatively late 7:30 a.m. start

DIFFICULTY
4
PRODUCTION
4
SCENERY
3
SWAG
3

Was this review helpful?

This marathon in Warwick City Park is a well-organized event. After a 0.88-mile out-and-back segment, runners complete nine loops around the park. Ample fluids and food are available at the … MORE

This marathon in Warwick City Park is a well-organized event. After a 0.88-mile out-and-back segment, runners complete nine loops around the park. Ample fluids and food are available at the start/finish line on each lap. The 2024 race had only 22 participants, so expect an intimate setting. The course is spacious enough for both racers and park guests. One side of the loop is fairly flat and more open, while the other side is shaded with small rolling hills that can become challenging in the latter half of the race.

DIFFICULTY
3
PRODUCTION
4
SCENERY
4
SWAG
3

Was this review helpful?

The Boise River Marathon Greenway offers a scenic 13.1-mile course, ideal for runners starting from town and looping back along the picturesque Greenway path. Initially, the path provides ample width … MORE

The Boise River Marathon Greenway offers a scenic 13.1-mile course, ideal for runners starting from town and looping back along the picturesque Greenway path. Initially, the path provides ample width and shading within city limits, but beyond mile 6, the surroundings open up, offering less protection from the elements. While the route generally ascends towards the turnaround point and descends on the return, occasional small inclines and declines keep the run interesting. Passing through the golf course around mile 5 adds a nice change of scenery along the route.

In 2024, participants faced challenging winds, notably a strong 20 mph southeast headwind on the outbound leg, which never seems to offset the returning tailwind.

The check-in process at a local sports store on Thursday was straightforward, involving the collection of bibs and hooded tee shirts. Brooksee Timing, the timing group, utilized GPS chips on bibs, providing accurate mile-by-mile tracking with receivers at each mile. Friends and family could track the actual, not interpolated, progress of runners online in real-time, with detailed split views available on the final results page.

Organization at the start/finish line was lacking. The organizers showed up at 5 minutes to start to set-up the PA system and could not get it working. At the finish, I had to pick my medal and water up off a table as no one seemed to be handing out medals or manning the food/water stations. This is a small race (288 marathon) so some lack of support is expected. The on-course stations were fine – about every 2 miles, and included water, Gatorade, and GU at all stations.

For those embarking on the 50-state challenge, this race is a good option, though there are other races along the Greenbelt in Boise worth considering. It’s worth noting that in 2024, the race coincided with Boise State University’s graduation, impacting travel arrangements with increased demand/prices for flights and accommodations.

DIFFICULTY
3
PRODUCTION
3
SCENERY
4
SWAG
2

Was this review helpful?

This race in Delaware was well-organized, but the start was crowded with runners from the half-marathon and 10K sharing the same route. The first half of the marathon included a … MORE

This race in Delaware was well-organized, but the start was crowded with runners from the half-marathon and 10K sharing the same route. The first half of the marathon included a challenging climb into Tower Park around mile 6, but the downhill stretch from miles 10 to 13 made up for lost time. The second half of the race followed a popular trail for 6.5 miles out and back, with mostly flat terrain but a challenging bridge over the river. The course was slightly longer than expected according to GPS (+0.50 miles), though usually, I’m only around +0.25 to +0.35. Weather conditions in 2024 were favorable, but rain could make boardwalk sections slippery. Packet pick-up and the start were convenient, located within walking distance from hotels along the riverfront.

DIFFICULTY
2
PRODUCTION
4
SCENERY
4
SWAG
3

Was this review helpful?

This is an excellent choice for 50 staters seeking to run a race in Maryland. While the weather can be questionable (it poured rain the day before the race - … MORE

This is an excellent choice for 50 staters seeking to run a race in Maryland. While the weather can be questionable (it poured rain the day before the race – but race day was cold, in the 30s, and dry), the course is an easy paved trail route with only 250-300 marathoners.

Starting from Severna Park High School, we headed south for 6.5 miles, with the first few miles running on city streets before hitting the trail. The trail pavement in 2024 was in great shape – and drained well from the rain the day before. A few spots where the asphalt had pushed up were clearly marked with yellow spray paint. Most miles were marked with standing placards; if not, a close look at the pavement showed the mile marker lines. There is a hill from just after mile 6 down to maybe 6.75 before a turn around and a run back up the same hill – about 100 feet in elevation.

The course then heads north for 19 miles, with half-marathoners branching off at about 12.75 miles and the marathoners continuing on the trail. The trail is wide, and I had no problems navigating the two-way traffic on the course.

At mile 19, the course turns back south to about mile 25.8 where it turns back onto a sidewalk to the Severna Park High School finish line.

I took advantage of the early start (30 minutes) option since I enjoy a little more space and wasn’t in the running for any awards. This did mean I was constantly being passed for most of the race – but again, the path was wide enough it wasn’t an issue. Runners can gather in the HS cafeteria before the race to keep warm and use the indoor facilities. There were also 4 (there were 6 but 2 blew over the day before the race) port-o-potties outside.

There was ample food and beverage after the race (no alcohol), and again, the cafeteria to keep warm or get a massage. The rest stops were a little further apart than I like (2.5-3.5 miles), but they all had Gatorade and water. Not all had port-o-potties so plan your stops well if you need to use the facilities – they are far between.

Great swag included a hooded sweatshirt, reusable tote/grocery bag, hat, and 5 pounds of Kachava. Registration/packet pick-up was also at the school and was easy the day before or the morning of the race. Be aware that many Navy Midshipmen run the race – overall times are a little faster than a race of this type would indicate.

DIFFICULTY
2
PRODUCTION
4
SCENERY
3
SWAG
5

1 member marked this review helpful. Agree?

The Mississippi River Marathon offers a well-organized race on a predominantly flat, open, course. Access to Greenville, MS can be a challenge, given the absence of major city airports nearby. … MORE

The Mississippi River Marathon offers a well-organized race on a predominantly flat, open, course. Access to Greenville, MS can be a challenge, given the absence of major city airports nearby. Personally, I opted for Memphis, undertaking a 2.5-hour drive to Greenville the day before the race. Check-in was conveniently located, and the race shirt provided was a standard long-sleeve technical shirt.

Arriving downtown just before 6 am, I found ample parking. Buses to the start line boarded between 6 am and 6:30 am, departing simultaneously. While driving to the start is an option, note that there is no return bus, so plan accordingly if you have someone drop you off, as narrow roads close early.

The initial 6 miles traversed rural two-lane roads, followed by a stretch on highway 61, utilizing one lane of a four-lane open-access highway. Despite sufficient space between the runners and traffic, the noise can be a factor for those wanting to listen to music.

The notable incline occurred at mile 13 on the bridge over the Mississippi River, spanning about 2.5 miles with a gradual ascent. Miles 16-20 presented a straight and flat section, challenging against the prevailing wind after covering 16 miles. Beyond mile 20, the course navigated through neighborhoods, providing a welcome reprieve from the wind. We had a cloudy day in 2024 – there is no shade for the 1st 20 miles if it is sunny.

The finish line boasted an abundance of food and drinks. Notably, they packed two slices of pizza into to-go boxes, facilitating a quick grab-and-go option. Bagged donuts were also a welcomed treat. Make sure to visit the awards table; despite finishing 5th in my age group, winner only win one award and 3 people in my age group won overall or masters awards bumping me up to 2nd place.

DIFFICULTY
2
PRODUCTION
5
SCENERY
3
SWAG
4

1 member marked this review helpful. Agree?

The course is predominantly flat, with only one overpass that resembles a hill at the midpoint, but it's not particularly significant. The rollers near the last 2-3 miles gain importance … MORE

The course is predominantly flat, with only one overpass that resembles a hill at the midpoint, but it’s not particularly significant. The rollers near the last 2-3 miles gain importance due to their placement in the race. It’s a very fast race, especially when weather conditions are favorable. The 2024 race experienced optimal temperatures in the 40s, leading to the establishment of multiple elite records, including the Women’s Half – North American Record, American Women’s Half Record, and Men’s Full Course Record. Personally, it marked my fastest time in the last 15 races.

The event, despite its large size, is well-organized. Opting to stay downtown near the start/finish/convention center is recommended as everything is easily accessible by foot. Race check-in provides a nice towel, while the shirt, medal, and beer mug are awarded as finisher rewards. Aid stations are abundant along the course, ensuring hydration is always within reach. The back half of the race receives significant support from the crowds.

Organizers enhance the race experience by placing multiple speakers along stretches, such as the hill at 13 and the wall at 21-22, providing a musical backdrop for miles. It’s important to note that participants are assigned to corrals based on expected finish times, with corrals starting approximately 10 minutes apart. For instance, Corral C, for 4-5 hour finishers, began 25 minutes after the race start. Corrals lack porta-potties, trash cans, or aid, but these facilities are available just before the start and in the first mile. Quick stops are possible in the first mile with no waiting if needed.

DIFFICULTY
5
PRODUCTION
5
SCENERY
4
SWAG
5

Was this review helpful?

Honolulu Marathon is a well staged event in December and works great as a destination/vacation race. Be prepared for heat and humidity. The start temperatures were in the low 70s … MORE

Honolulu Marathon is a well staged event in December and works great as a destination/vacation race. Be prepared for heat and humidity. The start temperatures were in the low 70s with the day getting into the 80s. The start line is jam packed as other reviewers have pointed out. Expect novice runners to be looking up at the fireworks after the gun instead of paying attention to their direction. Diamond Head is difficult in both directions and the middle part of the course in on an extended (5+miles) 3 lane highway with little shade. Be aware that the convention center has 650 parking spots but can fill up early on Saturday mornings.

DIFFICULTY
4
PRODUCTION
5
SCENERY
4
SWAG
3

Was this review helpful?

The Richmond Marathon presented runners with an exceptional course against a backdrop of favorable weather—cool, dry, with minimal wind and intermittent clouds. The course, while featuring minor hills, thoughtfully engaged … MORE

The Richmond Marathon presented runners with an exceptional course against a backdrop of favorable weather—cool, dry, with minimal wind and intermittent clouds. The course, while featuring minor hills, thoughtfully engaged various muscle groups, particularly utilizing a gradual downhill stretch around mile 21, allowing for a consistent pace. However, participants should anticipate a challenging short uphill section approximately half a mile before the steep downhill finish for the last 0.40 miles.
The race’s well-spaced aid stations, initially positioned every two miles until the 20-mile mark and subsequently every mile, offered essential resources such as GU, ensuring consistent support. The local neighborhood’s enthusiastic backing, providing junk food and even beer, added a unique and spirited element to the event.
A notable highlight was the convenience of facilities, notably the provision of an array of 8 port-o-potties near mile #2, significantly reducing wait times compared to the typical one or two units found at most race aid stations.
Starting at 7 am provided an optimal start time, allowing participants to begin the race in cooler conditions. While parking was easy to find, it necessitated a brief walk from the finish. The differing start and finish locations approximately a mile apart required participants to make parking choices. However, the event day pricing ($10) at the garages listed by race organizers offered a convenient and appreciated option.
Packet pickup, though conveniently located, was distant from the course at the Richmond Raceway, requiring transportation if staying downtown without a car. The setup in the NASCAR garage area behind the pits provided a unique experience for participants.
The race swag, including a long-sleeve shirt (received at packet pickup), a hat, blanket (obtained at the finish with the bib stub), and the medal, added a touch of class swag to the race experience.
Post-race festivities at the park were busy, especially for participants finishing around the 4:30:00 mark, drawing both full and half-marathoners. Despite the apparent crowds, there was an abundant supply of food and beverages, ensuring everyone had the opportunity to refuel and celebrate their accomplishments.
The Richmond Marathon stands as a testament to well-organized logistics, engaging course features, and a vibrant post-race atmosphere, solidifying its position as a must-attend race for running enthusiasts.

DIFFICULTY
2
PRODUCTION
5
SCENERY
4
SWAG
5

Was this review helpful?

The racecourse is relatively flat but often experiences significant wind due to its location on the Atlantic shore. The first 7 miles around Atlantic City have elevation changes, involving running … MORE

The racecourse is relatively flat but often experiences significant wind due to its location on the Atlantic shore. The first 7 miles around Atlantic City have elevation changes, involving running up and down on/off ramps. The rest of the course is flat and mostly follows an out-and-back route along the ocean, with a dry boardwalk that I found comfortable to run on.
Finding registration inside the hotel/casino where the race is hosted can be challenging. Casinos are typically easy to locate, but other services may not be as readily visible.
Staying at one of the casino hotels near the start is convenient, but accommodations further from the start may be more affordable. However, the area 1/2 mile from the start line may appear a bit run down if you’re not staying at one of the casino hotels. I appreciated the high visibility of security personnel at my hotel.
Travel to Atlantic City from Philadelphia (PHL) is a relatively easy one-hour drive and this race is a good choice for runners looking to complete a race in New Jersey, given the few races available, especially for those pursuing a goal of running a race in all 50 states.

DIFFICULTY
3
PRODUCTION
4
SCENERY
4
SWAG
3
My Media

Was this review helpful?

Nice racecourse that is net downhill but has enough uphill to relieve the quads. Easy check-in and a fair number in the goodie bag. Director strives to give you the … MORE

Nice racecourse that is net downhill but has enough uphill to relieve the quads. Easy check-in and a fair number in the goodie bag. Director strives to give you the number corresponding to the state # you are completing if you are a 50-stater, just let them know when doing the online registration. Cars on the roads with runners but not enough to be distracting. Good locations for family and friends to watch and then move to the next location along the course.

DIFFICULTY
3
PRODUCTION
4
SCENERY
4
SWAG
4

3 members marked this review helpful. Agree?

Very well-run race on paved paths. Was not crowded because the marathon starts 15 minutes before the half-marathon allowing the marathoners to clear the half-marathon turn point (about 2 miles … MORE

Very well-run race on paved paths. Was not crowded because the marathon starts 15 minutes before the half-marathon allowing the marathoners to clear the half-marathon turn point (about 2 miles out). This does result in running into a few of the back-of-the-pack half-marathon walkers during the second half of the race. Course goes out from the city along the inlet toward and around the end of the airport. After 8.5 miles, turn and come back to the 2.0 mile point and turn inland for about 4.5 miles. Turn around at the end of this out and back and return to the start line downtown. While relatively flat, the hills in the first half will sap energy and the hills on the second half will punish you if you have gone out too fast. Leave some energy for the last half mile, which has a significant hill you ran down at the start.
Registration was easy and the technical long sleeve shirt was nice. Plenty of water and Gatorade along the course and at the finish. Grilled cheese and beer also available. Temperatures were forecast to be mid 50s to low 60s. The sun come out and temperatures rose to the upper 60s – still not bad for an August race.

DIFFICULTY
3
PRODUCTION
4
SCENERY
4
SWAG
4

Was this review helpful?

This race course is one of the fastest in the US. Although not as steep as others, the steady decline and the elevation closer to sea level make it a … MORE

This race course is one of the fastest in the US. Although not as steep as others, the steady decline and the elevation closer to sea level make it a very fast run. The trail is hard packed gravel, some loose stone and outcropping rocks may cause difficulty for runners who are pavement only. However, I didn’t find the footing difficult after exiting the tunnel.
The start of the race passes through a 2.3 mile tunnel. Make sure your headlamp is especially bright and stay to the middle of the course – the sides have water filled potholes that are ankle high.
The “expo” was simply tables outside the Nike Outlet in North Bend. The line can be long to get your bib if showing up at a prime time. The shirt is a technical tank – nothing special. Buses to the start were school buses, but the ride is only about 35-40 minutes. Unfortunately, the organizers mistimed the buses and race started 20 minutes late. The support on course was tables of water and Gatorade (not every station) – and that is all. No nutrition so bring your own. Trash bags at the mile markers helped keep the trail clean.
The scenery is spectacular! Wide views of the mountains across the valley. The noise from I-90 is noticeable in some places. The trail is not closed, so expect hikers and bikers. Additionally, spectators on bikes are allowed and can cause some traffic issues. One spectator would pass me, stop ahead and cheer his runner (must have been near me) and then 5 minutes later would be passing me again. Staying on tangents is impossible when yielding to bikes in both directions.
Amenities at the finish were adequate but nothing special. Water, milk, PB&J, bananas. The medal is nice with tunnel doors that open to show two runners.
Overall, an exceptional course that would benefit from better race management. If you have the option, research other races that run this same route.

DIFFICULTY
1
PRODUCTION
3
SCENERY
5
SWAG
2

1 member marked this review helpful. Agree?

Well run race by Mainly Marathons. The out and back course was wide enough to handle the crowd of 240 in most places. At times there were walkers three wide, … MORE

Well run race by Mainly Marathons. The out and back course was wide enough to handle the crowd of 240 in most places. At times there were walkers three wide, which made it difficult to get around, especially with runners coming the other direction. One hand cyclist on the same paved path also added some issues as she passed most runners a number of times. The course was flat and paved. The turns at both ends slowed me down a bit for each of the 12 laps. Plenty of drinks and food for all the runners. Tables for personal bottles also helped smooth the rest breaks. Be aware that many of the participants in this race were walkers and that you will be constantly passing if you are running.

DIFFICULTY
1
PRODUCTION
5
SCENERY
3
SWAG
4

Was this review helpful?

Buffalo runs a great race. Fireworks at the start add to the excitement. Knowledge of the course is important as you cross a high point (North Street) several times. Knowing … MORE

Buffalo runs a great race. Fireworks at the start add to the excitement. Knowledge of the course is important as you cross a high point (North Street) several times. Knowing the course is uphill toward North and downhill away, will help your pace if you don’t overcook going up to North. It is not a big hill, but will wear away at your legs. The section out to the lakeside park has a nice view of the BFD boat shooting off its water cannons! The post race party was upstairs in the conference center instead of being down at race level. If you want anything other than water and a recovery drink, be prepared to go upstairs into the event hall.

DIFFICULTY
3
PRODUCTION
4
SCENERY
3
SWAG
2

Was this review helpful?

The Pittsburgh Marathon is extremely well run. Everything from their app, to the expo, to pre-race, to post race was excellent. Mile markers had timers at every mile so it … MORE

The Pittsburgh Marathon is extremely well run. Everything from their app, to the expo, to pre-race, to post race was excellent. Mile markers had timers at every mile so it was easy to see your pace. Fireworks at the start of each wave was an exciting way to go.
This race is very hilly, especially on the back half. Starting with a climb at mile 12, there are various long steady inclines through mile 21. Although there is some decline on the back sides, it is not as easilly apparent (at least to me) as the inclines. A severe decline at mile 23 doesn’t seem to make up for all the hills from mile 12.
Crowd support was excellent and rivals any of the big city races like Minneapolis, Chicago, or Cincinnati that I have run.

DIFFICULTY
5
PRODUCTION
5
SCENERY
5
SWAG
3

2 members marked this review helpful. Agree?

Revel Races runs a great race. I hadn't done any of their races, but I found their production extremely well done. Tons of communication leading up to the race. Great … MORE

Revel Races runs a great race. I hadn’t done any of their races, but I found their production extremely well done. Tons of communication leading up to the race. Great race app that talks to you during the race – even you friends can text you cheers (converted to voice). Downhill course is very fast but can be difficult for novice runners not accustomed to declines. Over 5100′ of downhill, with the top part of the race very steep (4%). Also, with elevation, comes temperature change. The start was 25 degrees, and the gather location was surrounded by deep snow. The finish was upper 60s, with bright sun and a very dry southwest breeze; layering was key. Buses to the start were easy (although ours got lost and we arrived a little closer to the start time than I like). The road was closed, and any local traffic was well controlled by state and local police. Excellent aid stations well stocked.

DIFFICULTY
4
PRODUCTION
5
SCENERY
4
SWAG
4

Was this review helpful?

Extremely well-run event with a lot of communication heading into the race weekend. Water stops every 2 miles on the course made it easy to get hydration. The course is … MORE

Extremely well-run event with a lot of communication heading into the race weekend. Water stops every 2 miles on the course made it easy to get hydration. The course is very flat and, this year, was 2 loops due to lack of police ability to cover crossings. The only downside to the race was the heat this year. Upper 60s and low 70s was difficult for me – but may be okay for those who train in the south. The course is open to traffic – this can be difficult on the mail road leading to the start/finish which is about 2.5 miles. If you are trying to run tangents, that involves crossing the road – which is fine – just watch for cars. The part of the course that is run through The Villages, a closed golf and home development, is very beautiful but also open to “traffic” – watch for golf carts! Those drivers are less apt to yield than automobiles. Overall – I’d recommend this race – especially for 50 state runners who are looking for an alternative to the rolling hills in Atlanta. This course is as flat as any I have run.

DIFFICULTY
3
PRODUCTION
5
SCENERY
3
SWAG
4

2 members marked this review helpful. Agree?

Good course with relatively little elevation change. There is on overpass climb near the end of the race that can be a challenge, but otherwise no significant hills. A long … MORE

Good course with relatively little elevation change. There is on overpass climb near the end of the race that can be a challenge, but otherwise no significant hills. A long twisting road around a lake from miles 5-10 provides great scenery. The second half of the marathon, like many marathons, is not as scenic as the half. However, the neighborhoods were easy to run, and sections of shade helped with temperatures.

DIFFICULTY
2
PRODUCTION
4
SCENERY
4
SWAG
2

1 member marked this review helpful. Agree?

Well run race on a relatively easy course. I disagree with the advertisement that it is "pancake" flat as there are a few rises and falls; nothing I'd call hills. … MORE

Well run race on a relatively easy course. I disagree with the advertisement that it is “pancake” flat as there are a few rises and falls; nothing I’d call hills. Plenty of aid stations with water and powerade/gatorade but no nutrition, so be prepared to carry your own gels.

Great signage so it was easy to stay on course, even going through multiple neighborhoods. Easy to see where the 1/2 marathon branched off. Although the 5k, 1/2 and full all start together, the streets at the start are wide enough to accommodate everyone easily. Neighborhood streets were open to traffic both directions in the later stages of my run (4H30M pace) which I felt was inappropriate. It may have been “local” traffic, but when there are vehicles behind you trying to pass, it can be distracting.

The start and finish areas are staged at The Bolles School which allows for a lot of parking and restroom facilities. Food and drink at the finish were limited to bananas and water but the volunteers were friendly and helpful.

DIFFICULTY
2
PRODUCTION
5
SCENERY
4
SWAG
4

1 member marked this review helpful. Agree?