Ilia Ayzenshtok's Staging Area

As others have mentioned, the half marathon joining the full for the last 7 or so miles on a narrow path made it extremely difficult to run your pace (combined with the headwind and the imminent wall, neither of which are the RD’s fault). My pace was such that when the half joined the course the people that were doing the half were walking. Nothing against walkers, everyone deserves their race but there needs to be a division or at least a “keep right” side to allow the faster runners to continue to run. Other than that, top notch race. Still very much recommended! Volunteers were suuuper nice and the course was beautiful!

This is a super unique race with a lot of meaning that goes beyond your normal marathon. Participated as a civilian/light division. We camped the night before on base and joined the pasta buffet – highly recommended. Showed up right as the opening ceremony began. The first loop was a breeze with no issues as everyone were spread out. The support on course was great – water, electrolytes, bananas and orange. Plenty and frequently. Loved the opening ceremony and the camaraderie that comes with doing something challenging that also preservers the memory of all of those that lost their lives or survived the horrific Bataan Death March in WWII and its aftermath.

The only major con this year was the course change and the communication about it. Race organizers knew about the course change (from one big loop with a large hill to two loops without a hill) weeks in advance but waited until the day after registration closes to communicate this to participants. Specifically to those who plan to run this, the second loop was very challenging due to the amount of people you have to pass who are walking with full and very heavy packs (amazing). The uniqueness and pride you feel afterwards still keeps it at five stars for me. Recommended!

This is a big annual race in Atlanta. Started a little late. The course is hilly and just partially closed to traffic. Volunteers and aid stations were great. Loved the post-race area. Would love a triple peach gift instead of donuts. Overall good race if you’re in the area but I wouldn’t travel for it.

My favorite race so far. So many people out on the streets cheering you on and calling your name while smiling. Hills are definitely there but if you train on hills they are not that bad – plenty of downhill to compensate and recover. Aid stations every mile were stretched enough to not feel crammed and avoid stepping on each other. Only con was the bathrooms at the start – insane lines for each set of porta potties. Overall highly recommended!

Loved the new course. The looping around downtown allowed for a great atmosphere for the first five miles. Emotional segment through the St Jude campus. The rest of the course was standard city vibes. Aid stations were great although I only saw Gu gels once (maybe I missed the other one?). Great setup for the finish area celebration. Overall highly recommended.

Loved the race course. Takes you through most of Atlanta’s landmarks including the stadiums, beltline and GA Tech. It was definitely hilly for a half – RunKeeper registered 870ft of gain – but you also get a good amount of downhill: two whole miles 6-8 and most of mile 12 (needed). Aid station every mile after mile 6 including two with cold towels. Great organization – recommended!