Jamie Koonce's Staging Area

Of course running through Acadia National Park was incredibly beautiful but this was one of the the most pitiful races I have ever done. First – when I went to pick up my packet – there was only one person working at the pick up table. I had a few questions that I asked him and he didn’t know the answer to any of them. He couldn’t even give me the address of where the race started – just a general location. The shirt was tacky and the medal was nothing special. Also included was a $12 park entrance pass. That was it. I wouldn’t complain but this race cost much more than other races I’ve done. I realize it was a fundraiser for the YMCA and that’s good as I love my YMCA here in Knoxville. There were a few people along the course who were encouraging and friendly. Also – it was super hilly (as advertised). If you’re already planning to visit Acadia and the date matches the race date – do it but don’t make this a destination race for Maine.

This race was a nice surprise considering all the restrictions because of Covid 19. The organizers did an amazing job making you feel like times were “normal” again. From the drive through packet pick-up to the specific time starts and smaller corrals – they did their best to accommodate runners. I stayed at the Gulf Park Hilton and would NOT recommend. It was over-priced and not accommodating to those participating in the race. The race was 80% through a swampy state park with the highlight seeing a real alligator watching us. It was sad not getting a medal when crossing the finish line (the medal was given during the packet pick-up) and I missed not having an expo. Overall it was a great race and so fun to participate with happy running people.

Loved this race – it was very well organized – course was mostly flat – scenery was just ok – sad that we didn’t run by the Alamo. The absolute best part was the 1/2 mile run through a park where about every 6 feet there was someone holding an American flag on both sides – also with pictures of veterans who had died from that area. Made me so proud to be part of such a great country – I could have run for miles through that! Best expo with lots of purchase choices. Host hotel was right at the start line. Only negative – the race finished at a park that was a little far from the start – had to walk a long way to get back to the hotel and no pre-race meal options. Overall it was a great race!