I love visiting God’s Country and the Williamson area. I can argue that this race is still one of the best races ever and I’ve run some spectacular marathons. Of … MORE
I love visiting God’s Country and the Williamson area. I can argue that this race is still one of the best races ever and I’ve run some spectacular marathons. Of all the marathons under my belt, there is literally no competition in my mind. I’m glad I came back again this year because it firmly cemented my feelings that this is undeniably one my favorite marathons by far. There are a lot of good races out there, but in my personal view, this is probably the most fun you’ll have running 26.2 miles – putting aside those extreme meteorological conditions.
It is evident there’s history between the two families, and that alone is enough to lure history fans interested in seeing the places the feud made famous. Running this marathon is a great way to do just that since the course leads runners into regions where some of the feuding incidences happened. For history fans like myself, this is an unrivaled quality because you’re getting a personal look at the setting where some of the most famous Kentucky/West Virginia events transpired. I think of this marathon as a quick-paced history tour.
The H&M Marathon is a small low-key “hidden treasure” and is a spot-on description the race director Alexis and his dedicated team of volunteers do in the heart of Hatfield-McCoy feud country – except that no feuding takes place, just running. I am blown away by generosity of all the people who came out to cheer or volunteer to hand out course-side treats like watermelon, grapes, oranges, bananas, candy, sponges and rags dipped in ice water, ice water/chips, pickles and even fried chicken. Don’t forget to stop and pet the miniature horses along the way! That’s another tradition that makes this race a special event.
I don’t know what it is about the course, but you’re just surrounded by mountains, and everything is so green, and at the start, there’s typically this kind of early morning fog that appears like it’s shrouding the mountains in a clandestine manner.
Usually, June weather in the Tug Valley is hot and humid – this year no exception. With the area’s unrelenting hills, there are water stops every mile either to cool or nourish your inner self. Even though my finish time certainly reflected the heat related struggles I had throughout the second half of the marathon, somehow, I savored each and every mile. There is no time limit to complete the marathon and the course remains open until the final runner high-fives “Devil Anse” Hatfield or Ran’l McCoy.
Yes, getting to Williamson does take some effort, but once you arrive, you’ll be in for a treat – a diamond in the rough, so to speak. The race organizers and all the volunteers are incredible and the Hatfield and McCoy actors are amazing men – out there each and every year.
The course is both beautiful and interesting, and you get a lot of really unique special touches that you just don’t get at the bigger marathon events. Whether you’re a Maniac, Fanatic or a Fifty-Stater or just want to do something different, run this race. It’s worth the trip and see how far you can run with a stolen pig.
I think hillbillies are actually pretty smart, because they live in a setting way more scenic than I do. Just saying.
One must remember, be in by dark and if you see a pig, look the other way.
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Definitely a bucket list marathon
I love visiting God’s Country and the Williamson area. I can argue that this race is still one of the best races ever and I’ve run some spectacular marathons. Of … MORE
I love visiting God’s Country and the Williamson area. I can argue that this race is still one of the best races ever and I’ve run some spectacular marathons. Of all the marathons under my belt, there is literally no competition in my mind. I’m glad I came back again this year because it firmly cemented my feelings that this is undeniably one my favorite marathons by far. There are a lot of good races out there, but in my personal view, this is probably the most fun you’ll have running 26.2 miles – putting aside those extreme meteorological conditions.
It is evident there’s history between the two families, and that alone is enough to lure history fans interested in seeing the places the feud made famous. Running this marathon is a great way to do just that since the course leads runners into regions where some of the feuding incidences happened. For history fans like myself, this is an unrivaled quality because you’re getting a personal look at the setting where some of the most famous Kentucky/West Virginia events transpired. I think of this marathon as a quick-paced history tour.
The H&M Marathon is a small low-key “hidden treasure” and is a spot-on description the race director Alexis and his dedicated team of volunteers do in the heart of Hatfield-McCoy feud country – except that no feuding takes place, just running. I am blown away by generosity of all the people who came out to cheer or volunteer to hand out course-side treats like watermelon, grapes, oranges, bananas, candy, sponges and rags dipped in ice water, ice water/chips, pickles and even fried chicken. Don’t forget to stop and pet the miniature horses along the way! That’s another tradition that makes this race a special event.
I don’t know what it is about the course, but you’re just surrounded by mountains, and everything is so green, and at the start, there’s typically this kind of early morning fog that appears like it’s shrouding the mountains in a clandestine manner.
Usually, June weather in the Tug Valley is hot and humid – this year no exception. With the area’s unrelenting hills, there are water stops every mile either to cool or nourish your inner self. Even though my finish time certainly reflected the heat related struggles I had throughout the second half of the marathon, somehow, I savored each and every mile. There is no time limit to complete the marathon and the course remains open until the final runner high-fives “Devil Anse” Hatfield or Ran’l McCoy.
Yes, getting to Williamson does take some effort, but once you arrive, you’ll be in for a treat – a diamond in the rough, so to speak. The race organizers and all the volunteers are incredible and the Hatfield and McCoy actors are amazing men – out there each and every year.
The course is both beautiful and interesting, and you get a lot of really unique special touches that you just don’t get at the bigger marathon events. Whether you’re a Maniac, Fanatic or a Fifty-Stater or just want to do something different, run this race. It’s worth the trip and see how far you can run with a stolen pig.
I think hillbillies are actually pretty smart, because they live in a setting way more scenic than I do. Just saying.
One must remember, be in by dark and if you see a pig, look the other way.
Loved IT!!
Do not let the articles in the magazines scare you (they say one of toughest races). It was very doable. Rolling hills, can only remember one big one. The water … MORE
Do not let the articles in the magazines scare you (they say one of toughest races). It was very doable. Rolling hills, can only remember one big one.
The water stops (if you can call them that) were awesome. They were more like snack breaks, potty breaks, meet some fun locals break. And there were lots of them. One stop ever took pictures of every running and posted to Facebook. So far it is my favorite picture from the race!
It was very organized and everyone was very nice. Ate lunch at a restaurant at the finish line after the race. Did not have to wait for a table!! Very good food!!
Can’t wait to go back and do it again!!
Biggest Small Town Race
This race was by far the most challenging and most satisfying experience I’ve ever had since I’ve been running. Having done big city to local community events. This race was … MORE
This race was by far the most challenging and most satisfying experience I’ve ever had since I’ve been running. Having done big city to local community events. This race was everything a big city race should be. The people made you feel like you were part of the town. And the race organizers, made you part of history. In all honesty though. This course is amazing and difficult. I don’t wanna give too much away. I did the double half and. there’s is a reason the first half is called Blackberry mountain. The entire race is a run through history and with no time limit. You get a chance to stop and read up or talk to folks about the history. The support for this race is amazing. From the police officers encouraging people from their patrol cars. To the amazing water stations. That go above and beyond to make sure the runners are take care of. I mean who doesn’t like watermelon, oranges, or candy. Better yet ice cold water and Gatorade. Maybe even a freshly grilled hotdog? And to top it off a DQ within a mile of the finish. The weather went from one extreme to the other. Not the race’s fault. But my only con (also my biggest), is that it is an open course. So if your not comfortable with cars whizzing by. This would definitely not be your type of race. But for me I don’t mind and I highly recommend this race. I will definitely be back and bringing my own clan with me.
Great country run
Great race with lots of community support! Lots of aid stations and the volunteers could not do enough to help you! Watermelon, popsicles, oranges...everywhere! Beautiful countryside next to rocks and … MORE
Great race with lots of community support! Lots of aid stations and the volunteers could not do enough to help you! Watermelon, popsicles, oranges…everywhere! Beautiful countryside next to rocks and streams flowing alongside of you. Only thing I did not like was that it took 1.5 hours to get to a nice restaurant afterwards.
HM NEVER DISAPPOINTS!
Whether it’s Blackberry Mountain or River Road Trail this is a must do! The directors, planning committee, volunteers, water-stops, spectators along the way creates a wonderful experience for runners to … MORE
Whether it’s Blackberry Mountain or River Road Trail this is a must do! The directors, planning committee, volunteers, water-stops, spectators along the way creates a wonderful experience for runners to enjoy!
In my Top 3 events
The RD (and race board) is a runner and passionate about people and that resonates through every step of the course. The aid stations are what you would find on … MORE
The RD (and race board) is a runner and passionate about people and that resonates through every step of the course. The aid stations are what you would find on a trail ultra (but better). The dual finish line concept is novel and fun. The history of the first half is engaging–even if you’re not a history buff. Walker (and sprinter) friendly. No cutoff time!! Members of communities that line the two- state course come out in droves to man the generous aid stations, many of which are themed. No need to carry anything on this course. There is one big hill about mile 7 and the heat can often zap you but most people aren’t running this one for a BQ or PR. But, pacers are provided, if you are. Food and fun remain until the very last finisher. Staying overnight at the fire station is another fun twist to the event. I rarely re-run races but the community people have, and will continue to, lured me back with their kindness and genuine hospitality. Race officials hang up “Welcome back” signs for every returning runner along the course. Expo, and swag, is very small. But, spaghetti dinner is included with race entry. And the medals are always cool.
My first but not my last 1/2!!
The course was mostly road with a section about a mile of hard packed dirt, that thanks to days of rain was mud followed by and amazing adventure running over … MORE
The course was mostly road with a section about a mile of hard packed dirt, that thanks to days of rain was mud followed by and amazing adventure running over a swing bridge before converting back to a road run. There are plenty of waterstops and the volunteers are so excited to see the runners. It truly was a great experience. I don’t want to run any other races. Oh and the finisher medals are the bomb!!
Hilly, Hot, Humid and All Heart!
This race is well organized, the course is challenging, history abounds, the community spirit is palpable and the people are some of the friendliest around. Put this one on your … MORE
This race is well organized, the course is challenging, history abounds, the community spirit is palpable and the people are some of the friendliest around. Put this one on your “must do” list! You won’t regret it.
Loved every secind
My friend wanted to do her first marathon with no time limit. I had done the BlackBerry half and not the full. I have done a full before in Cincy. … MORE
My friend wanted to do her first marathon with no time limit. I had done the BlackBerry half and not the full. I have done a full before in Cincy. I am so glad I came back to this race! As I remembered the course is amazing. What makes this race special is the treatment of every runner. I have never been a back of the pack runner but staying with my friend we finished 4th and 5th from last. Every water and aid station was still open and enthusiastic. Residents were still in their homes cheering. I have done Marshall (half) Cincy Full, and the Pittsburgh half and nothing compares to this race. It gives everyone the opportunity to fulfill a bucket list and dream. Every one involved make it a once in the lifetime experience. This is a small town but the race has a big race fell. I encourage everyone who just dreams of a marathon regardless of pace to try this. If you finish first or last you will be treated the same and that is what I respect most of this race. I could go on and on but I will be back.
No feudin', Just runnin'
Fabulous & well put on event. The small expo was super friendly. Pasta dinner to support the high school included. The race was full of Hatfield and McCoy history and … MORE
Fabulous & well put on event. The small expo was super friendly. Pasta dinner to support the high school included. The race was full of Hatfield and McCoy history and other scenic areas. Aid stations EVERY MILE! And we’re talking ultra style not just water and gu! Loved everything about this even the massive climb up Blackberry Mountain. The only thing that hindered me was a calf injury but with NO TIME LIMIT it was all good. Highly recommend!
Must run at least One time
Roads are not closed to traffic . Book a hotel early because accommodations are very limited. Partially due to curvy roads the pavement is slanted the entire way. The 1st … MORE
Roads are not closed to traffic . Book a hotel early because accommodations are very limited.
Partially due to curvy roads the pavement is slanted the entire way. The 1st half has more historic sights but has no finish line crowd support . The 2nd half ends in downtown with a lot of crowd support. There are plenty of porta potties and water stops along both routes. Residents cheer runners on as they go by along both routes. Running down the other side of Blackberry Mtn is as steep as running up it. Race weekend information is well communicated. Shuttles are well organized.
Could not be happier with a race
I've heard nothing but great things about this race and it's always been on my bucket list. Finally got to experience it myself and it did not disappoint at all! … MORE
I’ve heard nothing but great things about this race and it’s always been on my bucket list. Finally got to experience it myself and it did not disappoint at all! This race has everything that I love about a race. Laid back, super friendly staff and volunteers, and VERY supportive community.
I am a back of packer. I love to just hang back and enjoy my time on course.
Before arriving, I’ve heard from so many people that it’d be super hot and humid, so I was a tad nervous. BUT…we lucked out this year with some pretty amazing weather. It rained, which helped keep the humidity at a tolerable level, and the temp lower. The wind died down at the start of the second half, and the sun peeked out for a moment towards the end of the race. This raised the humidity level a bit for the second half, which was when I fell apart. This SoCal gal am just not used to the humidity.
The course was AMAZING! I don’t get to see much greenery in SoCal, so running in places where you’re just surrounded by super green trees everywhere is just so serene. The morning fog was still lingering in between the trees when the race started and made it feel like we were running through the jungle. Plenty of rolling hills throughout the course. Not to mention that “tiny hill” called Blackberry Mountain, which was a toughy. If that was not enough, they whammy you with another hill at mile 23. Since it rained this weekend, around mile 15 was the mud obstacle course. Honestly, I had a blast with the course.
There’s aid stations pretty much at every mile from mile 2 onward. And each aid station was manned by one of the community’s groups, whether it be the church group, school sport teams, or a supportive family. Everyone at the aid stations were SO nice, greets you with a smile, and oh so accommodating. Southern hospitality at it’s finest.
To me, what makes a race great, other than the scenery, is the course support and the race staff. EVERYONE involved with this race was nothing my Rock Stars! Absolutely AMAZING race and if I can fit it into my budget, I would be coming back for sure!
Nice race
Good event overall. Nice medal. Good swag. Less participants than I expected, which made it easier to age group! Lots of water stations. Challenging course with some hills. Light rain … MORE
Good event overall. Nice medal. Good swag. Less participants than I expected, which made it easier to age group! Lots of water stations. Challenging course with some hills. Light rain really helped with warm weather. Not much at expo, and not much available for hotels in the area. Scenery in coal county area is nice, but towns and people in the area were a little culture shock to me. A depressed area of the country. I did enjoy the race, and post race meal at local resturant. Checked off WV for my 50 states, which was the main reason I chose to do this race. Probably won’t ever come back, just due to inconvenient logistics from where I live, near Chicago.
Amazing Race Experience
I chose this race as my first marathon after reading about it in Runner’s World last year. This race exceeded all expectations! A beautiful and challenging course, awesome SWAG and … MORE
I chose this race as my first marathon after reading about it in Runner’s World last year. This race exceeded all expectations! A beautiful and challenging course, awesome SWAG and plenty of fun water stops along the way… but my favorite part was the unparalleled enthusiasm and support from the locals and race volunteers. This was an amazing race experience, especially as a first time marathoner. I can’t wait to go back for the next one!
Most Entertaining Race Ever
I won't sugar-coat it - I walked. Actually more like a hike. But this was a 26.2 nature and history walk worth repeating. The water stations and fans lining the … MORE
I won’t sugar-coat it – I walked. Actually more like a hike. But this was a 26.2 nature and history walk worth repeating. The water stations and fans lining the entire route made this the most fun I’ve ever had for 26 miles. I even ate a hot dog around mile 16. The medals were beautiful and I’ll enjoy the shirt as well. It helped having some friends with me. I swore after my first marathon, I’d never do another (this was number 6). I’m glad I kept going. Hilliest to date and I could have run it a lot faster, but I’m glad I took my time and smelled the countryside.
pretty nice
Very pleased with the race for it being my first time. The water stops were great! I counted at least 8 water stops and two or three of them had … MORE
Very pleased with the race for it being my first time. The water stops were great! I counted at least 8 water stops and two or three of them had fruit to eat and freeze pops which all was very needed since the race from the beginning to around mile 8.5 is all an incline. From start to mile 6 it’s a gradual incline and from 6-8.5 it’s around a 700-900 ft elevation gain.
I really enjoyed the scenery and found it really helpful that there was pacers for every minute from 8:00mm to 15:00mm and also even more helpful that the sheriff department was in traffic patrol where we weren’t fighting traffic.
The bling is absolutely beautiful, finish line had a mason jar with the race logo and our goody bags had a beautiful shirt and a meal ticket! This race is completely worth it!
I Keep Coming Back For More
This year was my fifth time running this race. It is, without a doubt, the friendliest race around. From the incredible cameraderie among the runners to the overwhelming hospitality of … MORE
This year was my fifth time running this race. It is, without a doubt, the friendliest race around. From the incredible cameraderie among the runners to the overwhelming hospitality of the local communities. This is a race you don’t want to miss. The course is not for the meek. The front half features a massive incline (and descent) between Miles 6-8 and the back half consists of rolling hills, a little bit of trail running, a swinging bridge (seriously) , and a soul-crushing hill at Mile 23. Tremendous fun, overall, and one I can’t wait to run again next year.
Awesome race support, Beautiful course
This was the 3rd time I have run the race. I have run both halfs. I can't say enough about the race support., cold watermelon, water with ice in it, … MORE
This was the 3rd time I have run the race. I have run both halfs. I can’t say enough about the race support., cold watermelon, water with ice in it, popsicles, cold wash cloth and/or sponge filled with ice water. Also if you run more that one year you have a sign welcoming you back what more could you ask for! I plan on being there next year!
Just love everything about this race
I had originally signed up for the River Road Half Marathon. Unfortunately due to foot surgery in February I had to downgrade to the 5K. The RD was great. Responded … MORE
I had originally signed up for the River Road Half Marathon. Unfortunately due to foot surgery in February I had to downgrade to the 5K. The RD was great. Responded right away and there was no issue. I expected a mix up at packet pickup up but no trouble at all.
This is an out and back course, starting in the center of town, down route 119, turn left onto 292, down a hill and back to center of town. It was rainy but that didn’t stop people from being out on the course to support all of the runners.
This is my 3rd year running one of the Hatfield/McCoy races. I love it and I can’t wait to come back next!!!
Fun, tough, beautiful, great people
This race has more volunteers than runners, it seems, and they will do ANYTHING to make you comfortable and happy during your 26.2. The aid stations are more like ultra … MORE
This race has more volunteers than runners, it seems, and they will do ANYTHING to make you comfortable and happy during your 26.2. The aid stations are more like ultra aid stations, with real food and even iced Gatorade and water. The hills, though! I loved running in San Francisco, Montana, Utah, but there is NOTHING that compares to running Blackberry Mountain in the middle of a marathon. Basically, it will sap your ability to run “well” after the mountain, so just enjoy it.