Margaret Bussan's Staging Area

The Quad Cities Marathon 2023 was an exceptional event for a memorable race weekend: great expo, beautiful course, and best prerace events:

**1. The Great Expo:**
The race weekend kicked off with the Quad Cities Marathon Expo, and it did not disappoint. The expo featured a wide array of exhibitors, showcasing the latest in running gear, nutrition, and fitness technology. The friendly atmosphere made packet pickup easy and set a positive tone for the entire event.

**2. The Beautiful Course:**
The Quad Cities Marathon course is renowned for its scenic beauty, and the 2023 edition certainly lived up to its reputation: picturesque views along the Mississippi River, crossing it multiple times via stunning bridges that added a unique challenge to the race. Spectators lined the route, offering enthusiastic support and cheers that energized. The race’s flat and fast layout made it a great choice.

**3. Best Prerace Events:**
Leading up to the main race day, the Quad Cities Marathon offered a range of prerace events that added to the excitement of the weekend including yoga and the Fleet Feet shakeout run.

– **Happy Joe’s Kids’ Fun Run**: The event organizers didn’t forget about the youngest runners. The Kids’ Fun Run was a delightful spectacle as children of all ages took to the streets with enthusiasm, showing that the love of running transcends generations.

Overall, the Quad Cities Marathon 2023 was a resounding success, offering a blend of fitness, fun, and community spirit. Whether you were a seasoned marathoner or a first-time racer, this event had something to offer, and it left us with lasting memories of a well-organized race in a beautiful setting. If you’re considering your next race, the Quad Cities Marathon should definitely be on your list.