Kelly Munn's Staging Area

Race is very well done. Trax train to start from downtown and run from start up hill first mile but also lots of downhill. First half is fast with lots of downhills. Usually lots of half runners peel off and leave you feeling alone- not this race. Lots of runners and spectators thru whole race to the finish.

Course is two loops and second loop is pretty desolate. Thank you so much to all volunteers because there were not many spectators. Also, no fuel food or salty snacks. Cool end on the football field and sad but nice flower on memorial fountain where I had to take a few moments.

Overall an OK race. The course is well marked so easy to follow- which is good because the only full marathoners are likely from other states trying to check off Mississippi. There is zero crowd or spectators on the course. There were a few musical folks on the course and they should be applauded and thanked and there are manned water and Gatorade stops every couple miles- but NO SNACKS of any kind other than a few vanilla gu stops. Also pretty desolate and no crowds at all anywhere so definitely bring headphones as I forgot mine and 26 miles is a long way to go alone. I did chat with a few runners on the second loop of the course with folks from other states which was enjoyable. Overall an ok and not difficult run but also not the usual fun and energy of a marathon. Also, I finished at 5:14 not my best but also not the last one in- and all of the booths and tents were closed. I would think they would stay out at least 6 hours -but I am glad at least that there was a marathon in Mississippi.

Beautiful run over boardwalks! Highly recommend. Also start and stop at the Hangout super fun!! Get more beer so marathon finishers get more options…. By the time we finished there were only a few IPA beers left. Overall a great race!