| 2018 | 2017 | 2016 | 2015 | 2014 | |
| H (°F) | 78 | 60 | 58 | 78 | 72 |
| L (°F) | 63 | 50 | 47 | 54 | 52 |
| Powered by Dark Sky | |||||
I had heard great things about the experience of the Flying Pig and it did not disappoint! I was amazed at the amazing support from the race and the city. … MORE
I had heard great things about the experience of the Flying Pig and it did not disappoint! I was amazed at the amazing support from the race and the city. The endless fun stops along the way and seemingly endless cheer support were just the support I needed to get through my first full marathon.
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The Flying Pig puts on a first class event. 2018 was my 6th straight year of running a Flying Pig event (half marathon or full marathon), and I can honestly … MORE
The Flying Pig puts on a first class event. 2018 was my 6th straight year of running a Flying Pig event (half marathon or full marathon), and I can honestly say that this was the best yet. They take care to plan every detail, and the course support is top-notch. The Pig offers enough of a challenge for veteran racers, but it is also set up perfectly for first-timers. And as bonus, the new finish area at Smale Park was fantastic – I liked it much better than the previous finish area!
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The highlight of Cincinnati! This was my first relay (I was asked at the last minute to fill in for a sick member). Such a fun experience to share and … MORE
The highlight of Cincinnati! This was my first relay (I was asked at the last minute to fill in for a sick member). Such a fun experience to share and the medals and swag and awesome! The after party had tons of events and free stuff. I will be doing this every year from now on!
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The highlight of Cincinnati! This was my first year running and I walked the pig with my younger son after running the 10K. Such a fun experience to share and … MORE
The highlight of Cincinnati! This was my first year running and I walked the pig with my younger son after running the 10K. Such a fun experience to share and the medals and swag and awesome! The after party had tons of events and free stuff. I will be doing this every year from now on!
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Being a native to Cincinnati I was well aware of the hills that would be included in this course, that only made them slightly more manageable. I did a lot … MORE
Being a native to Cincinnati I was well aware of the hills that would be included in this course, that only made them slightly more manageable. I did a lot of hill training during my long runs, I recommend you do the same if you want to make it through this course! That being said, this is a great race, from the organization to the energy of the spectators I love being a part of the race weekend.
I’ve run the Half marathon a few times and felt it was only fitting to do my first Full in my home town. I’m so glad I did! I connected with the 4:20 group and they carried me through! Such a great time!
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Flying Pig 1/2 Marathon is challenging. Make sure that you do lots of hills when training for this race. Great spectators to cheer you along the route. MORE
Flying Pig 1/2 Marathon is challenging. Make sure that you do lots of hills when training for this race. Great spectators to cheer you along the route.
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The Flying Pig puts on a fantastic weekend of events! I run at least one of the flying pig races every year. In the past, I have run the Full … MORE
The Flying Pig puts on a fantastic weekend of events! I run at least one of the flying pig races every year. In the past, I have run the Full Marathon, Half Marathon, 10K, 5K and the Flying Fur. The events are always well organized. The swag is the best that I have received in any race. Above all, the fan support for this race is amazing…electric and super energizing! Each year they raise the bar! Highly Recommended!
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Once again the Flying Pig put on a great event. Due to some scheduling conflicts the start and finish lines were adjusted from previous years but the course was essentially … MORE
Once again the Flying Pig put on a great event. Due to some scheduling conflicts the start and finish lines were adjusted from previous years but the course was essentially the same. That being said the finish area was much improved over past years, I hope they keep it. I really liked the finishers jacket you received at the end.
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This is the best race I have run so far. It was only my second full marathon but I've also run 17 half marathons. It was so well executed and … MORE
This is the best race I have run so far. It was only my second full marathon but I’ve also run 17 half marathons. It was so well executed and the crowd/spectator support is phenomenal. I was never bored along the course. The areas that didn’t have as many people were augmented with personalized signs and there was even a mile full of inspirational quotes (I honestly really loved that and didn’t find it cheesy at all). People were handing out everything on the course including candy, girl scout cookies, beer, mimosas, bacon, vaseline, etc. It really was a party! The start line was pretty well organized and having porta potties in every corral was brilliant. I didn’t have to wait in a super long line to use the porta potty before the race and that really helped ease my anxiety starting the race. I hate worrying that I will have to stop along the course. The uphill is challenging but you get it out of the way early and the second half of the race feels like a breeze in comparison. I LOVED this race and would highly recommend it to anyone.
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Not my first marathon but my first time at a BIG Marathon. Was nervous about crowd control. Who knew there were 20K at the start line! Props to the port-a-potty … MORE
Not my first marathon but my first time at a BIG Marathon. Was nervous about crowd control. Who knew there were 20K at the start line! Props to the port-a-potty coordinator! Having some IN the starting Pig Pens was an excellent idea (and EVERYWHERE along the route)! Really decreased my anxiety level on that front for the entire race! Great spectators EVERYWHERE on the course passing out everything you could think of (food, drinks, tissues, Vaseline, wet towels, ice, etc)! Excellent Expo with great FREE stuff to try and the race swag was awesome too. The medal this year was stellar and let’s not forget the finishers jacket – So Classy! Official Race photos were a bit lacking. The official camera folks weren’t well identified so I’m sure I missed most of them, but there were EXCELLENT personal photo opportunities at the expo AND at the race clearly making up for it! HIGHLY recommend THE FLYING PIG! VERY WELL RUN RACE! Would do it again in a heartbeat!
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I loved this race! Great swag, big expo, and excellent pre-race communication. On race day, parking and access was easy. There were minimal restroom lines, and the corrals were well-organized. … MORE
I loved this race! Great swag, big expo, and excellent pre-race communication. On race day, parking and access was easy. There were minimal restroom lines, and the corrals were well-organized. The course was hilly and hot, but went through lots of interesting towns and communities, all with exceptional crowd support. The race organizers did a phenomenal job with this one. I would recommend without reservation, unless you’re trying for a PB.
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-Grassroots runner/walker friendly race that gets everyone (including kids, babies, and dogs) in on the fun. Each race -1 mile, 5k, 10k, and Half and full are filled with fun … MORE
-Grassroots runner/walker friendly race that gets everyone (including kids, babies, and dogs) in on the fun. Each race -1 mile, 5k, 10k, and Half and full are filled with fun and entertainment.
-It is a funfilled weekend for the entire family with concerts, racing and activities through out the day
-WELL ORGANIZED and AWESOME CROWD SUPPORT
-BEST MEDALS and GIFTS (not just a shirt and medal race)
-Way Better and CHEAPER than DISNEY
-GOING BACK FOR THE CHALLENGE!!!
-Cincinatti is an awesome City
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The Flying Pig is a great race! It is actually my favorite despite miles and miles of hills. The volunteers and spectators are the best, aid stations are well stocked, … MORE
The Flying Pig is a great race! It is actually my favorite despite miles and miles of hills. The volunteers and spectators are the best, aid stations are well stocked, there is a ton of entertainment on the course so you don’t even need headphones. The race swag is the best of the races that I run.
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Everything from expo to finish line party is done well! This was my first time running the full. Expo is amazing P&G always have great giveaways. Blanket, shirt, poster and … MORE
Everything from expo to finish line party is done well! This was my first time running the full. Expo is amazing P&G always have great giveaways. Blanket, shirt, poster and jacket for running the full—nice swag to go along with the finisher medal. It is hilly but I was surprised by the amount of downhill. I enjoy hills during a marathon but if you don’t it might not be your thing. Aid station every mile and on course entertainment, too. Some aid stations offered “real food” like bacon and cookies and chips and fruit. Neighborhoods come out for this in epic proportion (see picture). I had music and didn’t turn it on once. Sometimes I tend to run intervals and I didn’t turn those on, either—I just ran from aid station to aid station. At mile 21 I actually thought to myself, “rats, I only have about an hour left of running”—It was just that enjoyable. I train in MN so it was a little warm but I expected that. 50% off merchandise at the finish line. And, guess what?! I finished the marathon and there was still lots of food and celebration going on. Don’t you hate it when marathons are hosted but the party and food runs out during the half finishers? Not here!! I’ll be running it again, for sure!
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The course was full of spectacular views; from city views across the Ohio river to decked out neighborhoods celebrating the pig. Fans and volunteers alike provided an awesome experience as … MORE
The course was full of spectacular views; from city views across the Ohio river to decked out neighborhoods celebrating the pig. Fans and volunteers alike provided an awesome experience as they lined the streets and kept the party going and the runners running. Pre- and post-race swag was top notch, with an awesome expo and a unique medal. Highly recommend Cincinnati’s Flying Pig.
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This was my first full marathon, and what a great race for a first. The course winds through downtown and into historical districts east of the city, finishing along the … MORE
This was my first full marathon, and what a great race for a first. The course winds through downtown and into historical districts east of the city, finishing along the Ohio River. The hills are challenging, but not ridiculous. Copious water/aid stations along the course and enthusiastic crowds help keep you going, especially in the final few miles. Can’t wait until next year.
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Loved most of this race. The hills/climbs in the first 9 mile aren't too bad (and I'm a flatlander/river bottom person). They were challenging and well worth the view. Running … MORE
Loved most of this race. The hills/climbs in the first 9 mile aren’t too bad (and I’m a flatlander/river bottom person). They were challenging and well worth the view. Running into KY and seeing beautiful buildings and bridges throughout the area was great!
I am a slower competitor. After a car collision I have had to become a walker. I started in a later corral. I was on pace with under 16 minute miles. It was still sad and frustrating to see aid stations being taken down as I was going past. What about the competitors behind me? It was a hot day and sunny day. I haven’t had many of those to train in this year. That made it a little more difficult. I appreciated the med tents having sunscreen on this sunny day. I appreciated the fire dept who handed out baggies of ice. I appreciated the aid stations that had ice on hand for runners.
I was disappointed with the ‘snacks’ at aid stations. I expected water and gatorade, and both were present. I was disappointed in the cookies cookies and pretzels handed out on course. The volunteers who tried to hand them to me, even though I was not giving them eye contact and trying to veer away without going out of my line. Loved the pit bull people who had orange slices on course, and the friendly neighbors out on course who had some orange juice. Loved the neighborhood in the Meriweather(?) area who had decorated their street.
For all the neighbors who came out and had ‘block parties’ during the race, it was fun to see them out there, but also weird to see people with tables of food and beverages on the side of the road and know that wasn’t for the runners, but for them. . .that was just weird.
Would I do the Pig again? absolutely!
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This race is a must do for anyone looking to try out a different city marathon! 1. Getting to Cincinnati First, I have never visited downtown Cincinnati before. Finding a … MORE
This race is a must do for anyone looking to try out a different city marathon!
1. Getting to Cincinnati
First, I have never visited downtown Cincinnati before. Finding a hotel was easy as there are several options in the city and over in Covington, KY. I stayed at a hotel across the river and it was very easy to walk over to the start line in the morning. The city is full of people for the race and there is a bunch of events happening that make you feel really welcomed.
2. The Expo
The expo is one of the biggest I’ve ever attended and they don’t disappoint with the freebies. P&G has a lot of free samples, but I will say that if you attend the expo on Friday vs. Saturday, you are likely to get more as they started to run out Saturday afternoon. For running the flying pig you receive a lot of items (shirt, poster, commemorative gift – ours was a blanket) and there is the option to purchase A LOT more! (I purchased a ballcap that I LOVE).
3. The Course
The course is definitely harder of the two marathons I’ve done (I did Akron 2 years and then the Flying Pig is my third). Akron is hilly as well, but what makes the Pig a challenge is the 2.5 mile hill in the beginning. I definitely recommend taking this hill slow as once you get to the top at mile 8 – you have 18 more miles to go! so a lot of race left. One thing I want to note is that be prepared to not necessarily PR on this course – running a May marathon is challenging as if you are a Northerner like me (I live in Northeast Ohio), most of your training is done in the winter/snow. based on what people say, the Pig usually ends up being warmer/hot weather and this was the case for us – a starting temp of 55 degrees and ending temp in the 70s. Once again, not a negative at all! But I would just know this going into the race.
4. The Spectators
Crowd support is easily the biggest draw of this race. People are cheering, people are helpful, people are supportive, and people are EVERYWHERE! Not much more I can say about that – you just need to run the big yourself to see!
5. The Finish Swine
This year they changed the location of the finish and since this was my first time running the Pig, I can’t say too much about how it was before but I enjoyed the finish this time! It’s right between the two stadiums so it helps you to see the first stadium and know that you are close! Once you finish they have a nice finishing area that only runners can be in, and that’s where the snacks/pizza/medal area is. Once you exit you can meet up with family members (they have a reunion area) and then there’s a park right next to the river with a bunch of booths, grassy areas for sitting, live music, and of course – beer! If you stayed in a local hotel too and don’t feel like walking they have bus shuttles to take you wherever you need to go.
Overall, definitely a great race and one I would do again!
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Two words: safety and fun! I have never felt so safe on a race course. The cyclists were rolling up and down the course the entire time on the lookout … MORE
Two words: safety and fun! I have never felt so safe on a race course. The cyclists were rolling up and down the course the entire time on the lookout for people with signs of distress and there were med tents giving out ice and helping in every way needed. There was even a group of volunteers giving out wet towels at one point and another group giving out wet t-shirts at another. And the grunts and squealers! Soooooo many people cheering during the ENTIRE course, there was hardly a half mile that didn’t have a group cheering the runners on. This was such a fun race full of every pig pun imaginable, both in the signs that people held and in the official course offerings, like the B.L.T. (best little tissue) stations. I will do an event in this race every year for as long as my body allows me to do so.
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This was my second marathon, but first Flying Pig Marathon. This marathon did not disappoint. It is a challenging course, but the hard hills are in the first third of … MORE
This was my second marathon, but first Flying Pig Marathon. This marathon did not disappoint. It is a challenging course, but the hard hills are in the first third of the race. The crowds are great and the volunteers make sure you have everything you need. A bonus this year was having access to Paul Brown Stadium before the race – you could use a real restroom before the race! Sometimes it is the simple things like being able to sit and wash your hands in a real restroom.
This race has great swag – a t-shirt, blanket, and the 20th running finishers jacket. The expo had great vendors as well.
Cincinnati also has a great beer scene within walking distance of finishing. I highly recommend this race to runners looking for a fun race.
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Amazing First Marathon Experience
I had heard great things about the experience of the Flying Pig and it did not disappoint! I was amazed at the amazing support from the race and the city. … MORE
I had heard great things about the experience of the Flying Pig and it did not disappoint! I was amazed at the amazing support from the race and the city. The endless fun stops along the way and seemingly endless cheer support were just the support I needed to get through my first full marathon.
Flying Pig Marathon 2018
The Flying Pig puts on a first class event. 2018 was my 6th straight year of running a Flying Pig event (half marathon or full marathon), and I can honestly … MORE
The Flying Pig puts on a first class event. 2018 was my 6th straight year of running a Flying Pig event (half marathon or full marathon), and I can honestly say that this was the best yet. They take care to plan every detail, and the course support is top-notch. The Pig offers enough of a challenge for veteran racers, but it is also set up perfectly for first-timers. And as bonus, the new finish area at Smale Park was fantastic – I liked it much better than the previous finish area!
Great experience!!!
The highlight of Cincinnati! This was my first relay (I was asked at the last minute to fill in for a sick member). Such a fun experience to share and … MORE
The highlight of Cincinnati! This was my first relay (I was asked at the last minute to fill in for a sick member). Such a fun experience to share and the medals and swag and awesome! The after party had tons of events and free stuff. I will be doing this every year from now on!
Love the pig!
The highlight of Cincinnati! This was my first year running and I walked the pig with my younger son after running the 10K. Such a fun experience to share and … MORE
The highlight of Cincinnati! This was my first year running and I walked the pig with my younger son after running the 10K. Such a fun experience to share and the medals and swag and awesome! The after party had tons of events and free stuff. I will be doing this every year from now on!
Difficult but so exciting!
Being a native to Cincinnati I was well aware of the hills that would be included in this course, that only made them slightly more manageable. I did a lot … MORE
Being a native to Cincinnati I was well aware of the hills that would be included in this course, that only made them slightly more manageable. I did a lot of hill training during my long runs, I recommend you do the same if you want to make it through this course! That being said, this is a great race, from the organization to the energy of the spectators I love being a part of the race weekend.
I’ve run the Half marathon a few times and felt it was only fitting to do my first Full in my home town. I’m so glad I did! I connected with the 4:20 group and they carried me through! Such a great time!
Running the hills of Cincinnati
Flying Pig 1/2 Marathon is challenging. Make sure that you do lots of hills when training for this race. Great spectators to cheer you along the route. MORE
Flying Pig 1/2 Marathon is challenging. Make sure that you do lots of hills when training for this race. Great spectators to cheer you along the route.
Pigtastic!
The Flying Pig puts on a fantastic weekend of events! I run at least one of the flying pig races every year. In the past, I have run the Full … MORE
The Flying Pig puts on a fantastic weekend of events! I run at least one of the flying pig races every year. In the past, I have run the Full Marathon, Half Marathon, 10K, 5K and the Flying Fur. The events are always well organized. The swag is the best that I have received in any race. Above all, the fan support for this race is amazing…electric and super energizing! Each year they raise the bar! Highly Recommended!
The Pig Rocks Once Again
Once again the Flying Pig put on a great event. Due to some scheduling conflicts the start and finish lines were adjusted from previous years but the course was essentially … MORE
Once again the Flying Pig put on a great event. Due to some scheduling conflicts the start and finish lines were adjusted from previous years but the course was essentially the same. That being said the finish area was much improved over past years, I hope they keep it. I really liked the finishers jacket you received at the end.
Favorite Marathon!
This is the best race I have run so far. It was only my second full marathon but I've also run 17 half marathons. It was so well executed and … MORE
This is the best race I have run so far. It was only my second full marathon but I’ve also run 17 half marathons. It was so well executed and the crowd/spectator support is phenomenal. I was never bored along the course. The areas that didn’t have as many people were augmented with personalized signs and there was even a mile full of inspirational quotes (I honestly really loved that and didn’t find it cheesy at all). People were handing out everything on the course including candy, girl scout cookies, beer, mimosas, bacon, vaseline, etc. It really was a party! The start line was pretty well organized and having porta potties in every corral was brilliant. I didn’t have to wait in a super long line to use the porta potty before the race and that really helped ease my anxiety starting the race. I hate worrying that I will have to stop along the course. The uphill is challenging but you get it out of the way early and the second half of the race feels like a breeze in comparison. I LOVED this race and would highly recommend it to anyone.
Well Run Race! Had a BLAST!
Not my first marathon but my first time at a BIG Marathon. Was nervous about crowd control. Who knew there were 20K at the start line! Props to the port-a-potty … MORE
Not my first marathon but my first time at a BIG Marathon. Was nervous about crowd control. Who knew there were 20K at the start line! Props to the port-a-potty coordinator! Having some IN the starting Pig Pens was an excellent idea (and EVERYWHERE along the route)! Really decreased my anxiety level on that front for the entire race! Great spectators EVERYWHERE on the course passing out everything you could think of (food, drinks, tissues, Vaseline, wet towels, ice, etc)! Excellent Expo with great FREE stuff to try and the race swag was awesome too. The medal this year was stellar and let’s not forget the finishers jacket – So Classy! Official Race photos were a bit lacking. The official camera folks weren’t well identified so I’m sure I missed most of them, but there were EXCELLENT personal photo opportunities at the expo AND at the race clearly making up for it! HIGHLY recommend THE FLYING PIG! VERY WELL RUN RACE! Would do it again in a heartbeat!
One of the most fun races anywhere
I loved this race! Great swag, big expo, and excellent pre-race communication. On race day, parking and access was easy. There were minimal restroom lines, and the corrals were well-organized. … MORE
I loved this race! Great swag, big expo, and excellent pre-race communication. On race day, parking and access was easy. There were minimal restroom lines, and the corrals were well-organized. The course was hilly and hot, but went through lots of interesting towns and communities, all with exceptional crowd support. The race organizers did a phenomenal job with this one. I would recommend without reservation, unless you’re trying for a PB.
Best RACE EVER-Better than Disney!
-Grassroots runner/walker friendly race that gets everyone (including kids, babies, and dogs) in on the fun. Each race -1 mile, 5k, 10k, and Half and full are filled with fun … MORE
-Grassroots runner/walker friendly race that gets everyone (including kids, babies, and dogs) in on the fun. Each race -1 mile, 5k, 10k, and Half and full are filled with fun and entertainment.
-It is a funfilled weekend for the entire family with concerts, racing and activities through out the day
-WELL ORGANIZED and AWESOME CROWD SUPPORT
-BEST MEDALS and GIFTS (not just a shirt and medal race)
-Way Better and CHEAPER than DISNEY
-GOING BACK FOR THE CHALLENGE!!!
-Cincinatti is an awesome City
Fun race with great support!
The Flying Pig is a great race! It is actually my favorite despite miles and miles of hills. The volunteers and spectators are the best, aid stations are well stocked, … MORE
The Flying Pig is a great race! It is actually my favorite despite miles and miles of hills. The volunteers and spectators are the best, aid stations are well stocked, there is a ton of entertainment on the course so you don’t even need headphones. The race swag is the best of the races that I run.
50 Staters Must!
Everything from expo to finish line party is done well! This was my first time running the full. Expo is amazing P&G always have great giveaways. Blanket, shirt, poster and … MORE
Everything from expo to finish line party is done well! This was my first time running the full. Expo is amazing P&G always have great giveaways. Blanket, shirt, poster and jacket for running the full—nice swag to go along with the finisher medal. It is hilly but I was surprised by the amount of downhill. I enjoy hills during a marathon but if you don’t it might not be your thing. Aid station every mile and on course entertainment, too. Some aid stations offered “real food” like bacon and cookies and chips and fruit. Neighborhoods come out for this in epic proportion (see picture). I had music and didn’t turn it on once. Sometimes I tend to run intervals and I didn’t turn those on, either—I just ran from aid station to aid station. At mile 21 I actually thought to myself, “rats, I only have about an hour left of running”—It was just that enjoyable. I train in MN so it was a little warm but I expected that. 50% off merchandise at the finish line. And, guess what?! I finished the marathon and there was still lots of food and celebration going on. Don’t you hate it when marathons are hosted but the party and food runs out during the half finishers? Not here!! I’ll be running it again, for sure!
Add it to your must run list
The course was full of spectacular views; from city views across the Ohio river to decked out neighborhoods celebrating the pig. Fans and volunteers alike provided an awesome experience as … MORE
The course was full of spectacular views; from city views across the Ohio river to decked out neighborhoods celebrating the pig. Fans and volunteers alike provided an awesome experience as they lined the streets and kept the party going and the runners running. Pre- and post-race swag was top notch, with an awesome expo and a unique medal. Highly recommend Cincinnati’s Flying Pig.
All around great race!
This was my first full marathon, and what a great race for a first. The course winds through downtown and into historical districts east of the city, finishing along the … MORE
This was my first full marathon, and what a great race for a first. The course winds through downtown and into historical districts east of the city, finishing along the Ohio River. The hills are challenging, but not ridiculous. Copious water/aid stations along the course and enthusiastic crowds help keep you going, especially in the final few miles. Can’t wait until next year.
Great Race, fun city.
Loved most of this race. The hills/climbs in the first 9 mile aren't too bad (and I'm a flatlander/river bottom person). They were challenging and well worth the view. Running … MORE
Loved most of this race. The hills/climbs in the first 9 mile aren’t too bad (and I’m a flatlander/river bottom person). They were challenging and well worth the view. Running into KY and seeing beautiful buildings and bridges throughout the area was great!
I am a slower competitor. After a car collision I have had to become a walker. I started in a later corral. I was on pace with under 16 minute miles. It was still sad and frustrating to see aid stations being taken down as I was going past. What about the competitors behind me? It was a hot day and sunny day. I haven’t had many of those to train in this year. That made it a little more difficult. I appreciated the med tents having sunscreen on this sunny day. I appreciated the fire dept who handed out baggies of ice. I appreciated the aid stations that had ice on hand for runners.
I was disappointed with the ‘snacks’ at aid stations. I expected water and gatorade, and both were present. I was disappointed in the cookies cookies and pretzels handed out on course. The volunteers who tried to hand them to me, even though I was not giving them eye contact and trying to veer away without going out of my line. Loved the pit bull people who had orange slices on course, and the friendly neighbors out on course who had some orange juice. Loved the neighborhood in the Meriweather(?) area who had decorated their street.
For all the neighbors who came out and had ‘block parties’ during the race, it was fun to see them out there, but also weird to see people with tables of food and beverages on the side of the road and know that wasn’t for the runners, but for them. . .that was just weird.
Would I do the Pig again? absolutely!
Worth the challenge!
This race is a must do for anyone looking to try out a different city marathon! 1. Getting to Cincinnati First, I have never visited downtown Cincinnati before. Finding a … MORE
This race is a must do for anyone looking to try out a different city marathon!
1. Getting to Cincinnati
First, I have never visited downtown Cincinnati before. Finding a hotel was easy as there are several options in the city and over in Covington, KY. I stayed at a hotel across the river and it was very easy to walk over to the start line in the morning. The city is full of people for the race and there is a bunch of events happening that make you feel really welcomed.
2. The Expo
The expo is one of the biggest I’ve ever attended and they don’t disappoint with the freebies. P&G has a lot of free samples, but I will say that if you attend the expo on Friday vs. Saturday, you are likely to get more as they started to run out Saturday afternoon. For running the flying pig you receive a lot of items (shirt, poster, commemorative gift – ours was a blanket) and there is the option to purchase A LOT more! (I purchased a ballcap that I LOVE).
3. The Course
The course is definitely harder of the two marathons I’ve done (I did Akron 2 years and then the Flying Pig is my third). Akron is hilly as well, but what makes the Pig a challenge is the 2.5 mile hill in the beginning. I definitely recommend taking this hill slow as once you get to the top at mile 8 – you have 18 more miles to go! so a lot of race left. One thing I want to note is that be prepared to not necessarily PR on this course – running a May marathon is challenging as if you are a Northerner like me (I live in Northeast Ohio), most of your training is done in the winter/snow. based on what people say, the Pig usually ends up being warmer/hot weather and this was the case for us – a starting temp of 55 degrees and ending temp in the 70s. Once again, not a negative at all! But I would just know this going into the race.
4. The Spectators
Crowd support is easily the biggest draw of this race. People are cheering, people are helpful, people are supportive, and people are EVERYWHERE! Not much more I can say about that – you just need to run the big yourself to see!
5. The Finish Swine
This year they changed the location of the finish and since this was my first time running the Pig, I can’t say too much about how it was before but I enjoyed the finish this time! It’s right between the two stadiums so it helps you to see the first stadium and know that you are close! Once you finish they have a nice finishing area that only runners can be in, and that’s where the snacks/pizza/medal area is. Once you exit you can meet up with family members (they have a reunion area) and then there’s a park right next to the river with a bunch of booths, grassy areas for sitting, live music, and of course – beer! If you stayed in a local hotel too and don’t feel like walking they have bus shuttles to take you wherever you need to go.
Overall, definitely a great race and one I would do again!
Love this fun, pun filled city!
Two words: safety and fun! I have never felt so safe on a race course. The cyclists were rolling up and down the course the entire time on the lookout … MORE
Two words: safety and fun! I have never felt so safe on a race course. The cyclists were rolling up and down the course the entire time on the lookout for people with signs of distress and there were med tents giving out ice and helping in every way needed. There was even a group of volunteers giving out wet towels at one point and another group giving out wet t-shirts at another. And the grunts and squealers! Soooooo many people cheering during the ENTIRE course, there was hardly a half mile that didn’t have a group cheering the runners on. This was such a fun race full of every pig pun imaginable, both in the signs that people held and in the official course offerings, like the B.L.T. (best little tissue) stations. I will do an event in this race every year for as long as my body allows me to do so.
Challenging Course in a Fun City
This was my second marathon, but first Flying Pig Marathon. This marathon did not disappoint. It is a challenging course, but the hard hills are in the first third of … MORE
This was my second marathon, but first Flying Pig Marathon. This marathon did not disappoint. It is a challenging course, but the hard hills are in the first third of the race. The crowds are great and the volunteers make sure you have everything you need. A bonus this year was having access to Paul Brown Stadium before the race – you could use a real restroom before the race! Sometimes it is the simple things like being able to sit and wash your hands in a real restroom.
This race has great swag – a t-shirt, blanket, and the 20th running finishers jacket. The expo had great vendors as well.
Cincinnati also has a great beer scene within walking distance of finishing. I highly recommend this race to runners looking for a fun race.