As advertised, this is an extremely flat course. The majority of the course takes place out on the airport runway, and as a result, there isn't much in the way … MORE
As advertised, this is an extremely flat course. The majority of the course takes place out on the airport runway, and as a result, there isn’t much in the way of interesting scenery nor on-course “pizzazz”. In fact, the race can become a bit monotonous (a real challenge for one’s mind). If you are thinking about doing this race, you will need to decide if the benefits of a flat course are enough of a draw to outweigh the “blah-ness” of the race. On the plus side, the race was well organized, the participant jacket and finisher medal were nice. One suggestion: Add more porta-johns on the course – especially out along the runway.
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Yes, it is Flat, but not much Scenery
As advertised, this is an extremely flat course. The majority of the course takes place out on the airport runway, and as a result, there isn't much in the way … MORE
As advertised, this is an extremely flat course. The majority of the course takes place out on the airport runway, and as a result, there isn’t much in the way of interesting scenery nor on-course “pizzazz”. In fact, the race can become a bit monotonous (a real challenge for one’s mind). If you are thinking about doing this race, you will need to decide if the benefits of a flat course are enough of a draw to outweigh the “blah-ness” of the race. On the plus side, the race was well organized, the participant jacket and finisher medal were nice. One suggestion: Add more porta-johns on the course – especially out along the runway.
13.6... longest .5 miles of my life
The race team had to make adjustments about 2 weeks before race day, and they did a great job given the circumstances! In typical Maine fashion, everyone at the event … MORE
The race team had to make adjustments about 2 weeks before race day, and they did a great job given the circumstances! In typical Maine fashion, everyone at the event was personable and the atmosphere was great given the smaller size of the race. With the last minute course change the race ended up being a half mile longer than expected, which was a total mind game for me personally and I would have liked to see more of the airfield during the race (it was mostly airport utility roads). All in all, it was a great race and the swag was pretty cool too.
Fast, Unique Course
Race the Runways offers a 1 mile race, a 5K and a half marathon. Participants in the 5K or the half can easily do the one-mile race before their other … MORE
Race the Runways offers a 1 mile race, a 5K and a half marathon. Participants in the 5K or the half can easily do the one-mile race before their other race start. Parking is conveniently close, and bib pickup is inside a nearby gym. You can stay in the gym before and after the race to keep warm. There are indoor bathrooms and porta potties outside near the start.
I have run this race in 2014, 2015 and 2016. In 2015 the race used a new course for the half marathon that was a positive improvement over the old course- the minor rolling hills at the beginning were removed, and we had more time on the runway. 2016 kept this new course and changed it slightly.
The course has little to no cars on it (most of the cars you see are actually race support vehicles). As the course is partially on a runway and goes on the roads of an airport, expect occasional strong wind blasts. Also, the water stops are placed outside the runway areas and there is a little bit of a long stretch without water stations (they cannot set them up on the runway). Don’t be surprised if there are planes taking offer and landing over you while you’re on the course. It’s actually a really cool experience. You are never in danger as the runway we’re on is closed to air traffic during the event.
The race shirt and medal are excellent. For the price, you get a very well-supported, small race that I would recommend. The course time limits are also walker friendly.
The weather can change drastically from year to year. Plan to wear something you can vent or partially zipper down, as you may find yourself going from cold to warm repeatedly depending upon the wind and where you are on the course.