Meg Bell's Staging Area

The Marine Corps Marathon was my first marathon, and I genuinely couldn’t have asked for a better experience. From start to finish, it was everything I hoped for and more.

I stayed in the Arlington/Rosslyn area and getting around was a breeze—Metro was incredibly easy to navigate, even for a first-timer. I went to the expo on Friday with zero issues (took the shuttle from the Metro). While the expo organization was smooth, the swag was definitely underwhelming—designs felt limited and not quite as exciting as I hoped. Still, everyone was friendly and helpful, and it was quick in and out.

Race morning was organized beautifully, with the only hiccup being how insanely packed the Metro was at the Rosslyn station. The start area logistics were seamless, clear, and well-controlled. The weather was perfect. On-course support was outstanding—lots of well-stocked water and nutrition stops, and yes… plenty of Marine eye candy at every station to keep the energy high! The crowd support was powerful and constant; there were very few lonely stretches, and the cheering sections really carried you forward.

The Blue Mile was one of the most emotional and inspiring parts of the course. It’s impossible not to feel humbled and motivated running through that tribute.

The finish line experience and family meet-up area were just as smooth—easy to navigate, quick to reunite with supporters, and no confusion at all.

If I had one suggestion, the race website could use a redesign—information was there, but not always easy to find. Nothing major, just something that could make the experience even better.

Overall: phenomenal race, phenomenal organization, phenomenal experience. I’d absolutely recommend MCM to anyone, especially first-timers. A truly unforgettable day!