My Profile

@tsltan

Sudbury, MA Raving since 2022 50 States hopeful/finisher, Marathon Maniacs #335 Active 4 months, 1 week ago

About Me

  • Running club(s):
  • Rave race:
  • Race that's calling my name:
  • I run because:

My Races

Organize, track & review your races and personal bests here.

50 States Map
image/svg+xml FL TX NM AZ AK CA NV UT CO OR WA ID HI OK MT WY ND SD NE KS MN IA MO AR LA MS AL GA SC IL WI MI IN OH TN KY NC WV VA PA NY ME VT NH RI CT NJ DE MD MA DC

Half Marathon

Marathon

Ultramarathon

(Marathon or Ultra) + Half

Marathon + Ultra

Other

Future Races

Personal Bests (4)

Race Distance Location Date Result
100K New Gloucester, ME May 28, 2023 12:55:24
50 Miler Page, AZ Mar 9, 2019 14:40:00
50K Poway, CA Mar 18, 2023 9:21:00
Marathon Newport, RI Oct 9, 2022 4:57:39

Future Races (0)

Race Distance Location Date Paid

Past Races (26)

Race Distance Location Date Result My Raves My Performance
Marathon Huntington, WV Nov 5, 2023 5:01:43
Marathon Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia Sep 29, 2023 5:54:24
Marathon Anchorage, AK Jun 17, 2023 5:36:24
100K New Gloucester, ME May 28, 2023 12:55:24
Marathon Kalamazoo, MI Apr 23, 2023 5:24:25
Marathon St Louis, MO Apr 2, 2023 5:06:35
50K Poway, CA Mar 18, 2023 9:21:00
Marathon Little Rock, AR Mar 5, 2023 5:35:56
100K Pelham, AL Dec 31, 2022 17:49:00
Marathon Manchester, NH Nov 13, 2022 5:59:05
Marathon Roxbury, CT Nov 12, 2022 5:39:31
Marathon Bowling Green, KY Nov 6, 2022 5:39:06
Marathon Indianapolis, IN Nov 5, 2022 5:34:34
Marathon Newport, RI Oct 9, 2022 4:57:39
100K West Windsor, VT Jul 16, 2022 14:01:00
50 Miler Hatch, UT May 28, 2022
50K Corvallis, OR May 7, 2022 10:35:42
50K Chatsworth, GA Apr 23, 2022 11:05:00
Marathon Lackawaxen, PA Mar 26, 2022
50K Julian, CA Mar 12, 2022
Marathon Jackson, MS Feb 19, 2022
39.3 Miler Hilton Head Island, SC Jan 15, 2022
Marathon Nashville, TN Nov 21, 2021
Marathon Nashville, TN Nov 20, 2021
Marathon Nashville, TN Oct 3, 2021
50 Miler Page, AZ Mar 9, 2019 14:40:00

My Raves

Marshall University Marathon and Half might be a relatively small race (2023 saw over 1,800 participants in both events) but the 13.1-mile loop course is relatively flat, making it a … MORE

Marshall University Marathon and Half might be a relatively small race (2023 saw over 1,800 participants in both events) but the 13.1-mile loop course is relatively flat, making it a popular marathon to qualify for Boston.

The positives are the location of the race start/finish at the Joan C Edward Stadium in Marshall University, ample car parking at the stadium, running by Harris Riverfront Park and Ritter Park (twice) as well as a very energetic MC from ‘Enjoy Your Life’. Best of all, Marathoners get to carry a football to the “endzone” on the field at the stadium as they cross the finish line. It was epic.

One minor negative: Don’t expect a huge crowd of spectators along the course if you’re looking for cheers and hi-fives to carry you through the wall.

West Virginians are proud of their chilly hogs and pizza rolls, which are great post-race meals! After the marathon/half, be sure to check out the Hillbilly Hot Dogs (featured on Food Channel), just 2o min drive from Huntington. It is a must-visit.

DIFFICULTY
1
PRODUCTION
3
SCENERY
3
SWAG
3
My Media

1 member marked this review helpful. Agree?

The 49th Annual Anchorage Mayor's Marathon is my 49th State Marathon. In the 49th State (Alaska), how fitting! It is easily one of my favorite marathon courses. Organized by the … MORE

The 49th Annual Anchorage Mayor’s Marathon is my 49th State Marathon. In the 49th State (Alaska), how fitting! It is easily one of my favorite marathon courses. Organized by the University of Alaska Anchorage and Anchorage Parks & Recreation, 5 running events, including the Marathon, Half Marathon, 5 Miler, Kid’s Mile, and Relays, are held during the Summer Solstice.

The Expo (I went on Thursday) was OK and relatively low energy. There weren’t many people or booths. But the finish area was definitely festive with ample of music, food and drinks for runners.

Bonus: There is just something about exploring a place where you get nineteen hours or more daylight!

DIFFICULTY
3
PRODUCTION
4
SCENERY
5
SWAG
3
My Media

Was this review helpful?

I ran the 100 km trail race at Pineland Farms as my qualification race for Vermont 100 because I previously ran the Pineland Farms 50 Mile Trail Challenge twice, finishing … MORE

I ran the 100 km trail race at Pineland Farms as my qualification race for Vermont 100 because I previously ran the Pineland Farms 50 Mile Trail Challenge twice, finishing under 11 hours on both occasions. My experience with the similar course gave me some confidence going in. Under the new management, 40 Back Events, the Pineland Farms 100 km course is a slightly updated 14.9-mile loop or 25K, so runners will need to complete 4 laps. This is a reliable and relatively fast course for 100-mile race qualifications. Highly recommend it.

DIFFICULTY
4
PRODUCTION
4
SCENERY
3
SWAG
3
My Media

Was this review helpful?

The Zeigler Kalamazoo Marathon returns to downtown Kalamazoo after a 3-year hiatus. There was nothing special or memorable about the Expo or the course. The race atmosphere was OK, perhaps … MORE

The Zeigler Kalamazoo Marathon returns to downtown Kalamazoo after a 3-year hiatus. There was nothing special or memorable about the Expo or the course. The race atmosphere was OK, perhaps due to the relatively small crowd. My favorite part is running through the Waldo Stadium at the Western Michigan University, where there were more spectators and energy.

DIFFICULTY
3
PRODUCTION
3
SCENERY
3
SWAG
2
My Media

Was this review helpful?

The highlight for me is undoubtedly running through the Gateway Arch National Park (and later taking the tram up the Arch for a 360 view of St. Louis). I also … MORE

The highlight for me is undoubtedly running through the Gateway Arch National Park (and later taking the tram up the Arch for a 360 view of St. Louis). I also recommend checking out the sunset at the rooftop of the 360 St. Louis atop the Hilton St. Louis across from the Busch Stadium ballpark.

I stayed at the Hotel Indigo, which is ideally located in downtown St. Louis. It’s within walking distance from the Gateway Arch National Park as well as from the shuttle stop near the Finish area. The shuttle takes you to the Start area in Forest Park.

DIFFICULTY
3
PRODUCTION
3
SCENERY
4
SWAG
3
My Media

Was this review helpful?

The Sycamore Canyon 100/50k trail races were originally scheduled for Feb 25, 2023, and were postponed to Mar 18, 2023. The 100/50k races are run on a 'figure 8' 7.9-mile … MORE

The Sycamore Canyon 100/50k trail races were originally scheduled for Feb 25, 2023, and were postponed to Mar 18, 2023.

The 100/50k races are run on a ‘figure 8’ 7.9-mile loop course in the beautiful Goodman Ranch Sycamore Canyon Preserve just east of San Diego (near Poway, CA). 100k runners must complete 8 loops and 4 loops for the 50-km runners. Each loop has about 1,400 feet of elevation gain. The cutoff time is pretty generous–all runners finish by 10 PM and runners must start the last loop by 8 PM.

There is also a half marathon option which is consisted of two smaller loops.

DIFFICULTY
4
PRODUCTION
3
SCENERY
5
SWAG
3
My Media

Was this review helpful?

I enjoyed every moment—from the marathon expo and its location to the hilly course scattered with historic sites to the interactive and entertaining aid station staff and energetic spectators. Make … MORE

I enjoyed every moment—from the marathon expo and its location to the hilly course scattered with historic sites to the interactive and entertaining aid station staff and energetic spectators. Make sure you stay at the Little Rock Marathon which is next to the marathon start/finish line. The finisher medal is the biggest I’ve ever seen, holly molly! This is one groovy marathon and I wholeheartedly recommend it!

DIFFICULTY
3
PRODUCTION
5
SCENERY
3
SWAG
5
My Media

2 members marked this review helpful. Agree?

The KL Marathon has grown year-on-year to become the most anticipated distance running event in Malaysia. There are apparently over 40,000 runners participating in this year’s KL Marathon events, including … MORE

The KL Marathon has grown year-on-year to become the most anticipated distance running event in Malaysia. There are apparently over 40,000 runners participating in this year’s KL Marathon events, including 5K and half marathon races. I’ve never seen such a crowded and energetic race expo! I guess the COVID-19 pandemic is a distant memory.

Positives:
1) Unique course as runners run through the city filled with a mix of modern and old structures.
2) Major production with impressive vendor varieties and fun activities at the health expo.
3) So many 4 and 5-star hotels with affordable rates near race start/finish!

Negatives:
1) Train and come prepared for the heat and humidity. Hence, the early start time. I struggled big time.
2) The Heath Expo was quite unorganized with long wait lines.
3) There are several hilly sections (on bridges) but nothing extreme

DIFFICULTY
3
PRODUCTION
4
SCENERY
4
SWAG
3
My Media

Was this review helpful?

Organized by Zombie Trail Races, the inaugural Run Undead Trail Party was a hoot. It took place on New Year's Eve in the beautiful Oak Mountain State Park in Pelham, … MORE

Organized by Zombie Trail Races, the inaugural Run Undead Trail Party was a hoot. It took place on New Year’s Eve in the beautiful Oak Mountain State Park in Pelham, Alabama. The event offers 5 running distance options: 25K, 50K, 50 miles, 100K, and 100 miles. You go through the one and only aid station per loop at a pavilion, which also serves as the Start/Finish, and there was a ton of refreshments and fun activities, including a ball drop at midnight and round the clock music! It was quite a party!

DIFFICULTY
3
PRODUCTION
5
SCENERY
3
SWAG
3
My Media

Was this review helpful?

This marathon is not flat and definitely not one to target for qualifying Boston. But it had awesome pacing teams. The pre- and post-race activities/festivities were adequately and aptly put … MORE

This marathon is not flat and definitely not one to target for qualifying Boston. But it had awesome pacing teams. The pre- and post-race activities/festivities were adequately and aptly put together, especially for the size of the field. Parking options were plenty and straightforward.
Check out my video below for more on the course.

DIFFICULTY
3
PRODUCTION
3
SCENERY
3
SWAG
3
My Media

Was this review helpful?

This race had a very small field. Relatively few spectators on the course. The course is a 13.1-mile loop so marathoners run the course twice, which is through downtown Bowling … MORE

This race had a very small field. Relatively few spectators on the course. The course is a 13.1-mile loop so marathoners run the course twice, which is through downtown Bowling Green and the Western Kentucky University campus.

DIFFICULTY
3
PRODUCTION
2
SCENERY
3
SWAG
3
My Media

Was this review helpful?

This course is pretty flat so I guess I shouldn't be surprised by the huge turnout despite we were still recovering from the pandemic. Despite being a wet day, the … MORE

This course is pretty flat so I guess I shouldn’t be surprised by the huge turnout despite we were still recovering from the pandemic. Despite being a wet day, the volunteers came out and were enthusiastic and cheerful. The expo and race bib pickup were pretty standard. Parking in downtown was relatively easy. It rained quite heavily in the morning before the race, and we had drizzle on and off throughout the race. Otherwise, I’m sure it would have been an even greater experience.

DIFFICULTY
2
PRODUCTION
4
SCENERY
3
SWAG
4
My Media

Was this review helpful?

You start and finish the race almost on the water (Easton's Beach), running through scenic waterfronts, quaint neighborhoods, and historic mansions. Check out my YouTube video below. The event was … MORE

You start and finish the race almost on the water (Easton’s Beach), running through scenic waterfronts, quaint neighborhoods, and historic mansions. Check out my YouTube video below. The event was well organized and had a relatively small field compared to the big marathon events. Come check out this race before it the secret gets out and it becomes too large!

DIFFICULTY
2
PRODUCTION
4
SCENERY
5
SWAG
3
My Media

1 member marked this review helpful. Agree?

This is a well known ultramarathon, arguably one of the oldest in the country. It was very well organized. The race director (Amy Rusiecki) and committee are obviously very experienced. … MORE

This is a well known ultramarathon, arguably one of the oldest in the country. It was very well organized. The race director (Amy Rusiecki) and committee are obviously very experienced. The aid stations and volunteers were all energetic and cheerful, providing the much-needed morale boost to struggling runners. The atmosphere this year was magical and exciting as it marks the return of Vermont 100 after a 2-year hiatus due to the pandemic.

This is a very runnable course. You don’t need trail running shoes. This year’s 100-km course was slightly altered and had 12,000 ft of climbing compared to 8,000 ft in the previous years. Not sure if this is a permanent change. Plenty of food and drinks at the finish line area, while you recuperate and watch the 100 milers cross the finish line.

DIFFICULTY
4
PRODUCTION
4
SCENERY
3
SWAG
4
My Media

Was this review helpful?

This course starts at an elevation of 8,000 ft and is held in the desert. Be prepared! Arrive with a few days, if not weeks, to acclimatize to the attitude … MORE

This course starts at an elevation of 8,000 ft and is held in the desert. Be prepared! Arrive with a few days, if not weeks, to acclimatize to the attitude if you’re to used to it, and make sure you stay hydrated at all times. I learned my lesson the hard way. This is truly a vacation race destination. So many great areas to visit nearby. Check out my video below.

DIFFICULTY
5
PRODUCTION
4
SCENERY
5
SWAG
4
My Media

1 member marked this review helpful. Agree?

This race is held in the serene McDonald Forest which is located just north of Corvallis and is operated by Oregon State University College of Forestry. The trail was therefore … MORE

This race is held in the serene McDonald Forest which is located just north of Corvallis and is operated by Oregon State University College of Forestry. The trail was therefore well maintained. Not surprisingly, there were many student volunteers at this event.

Slow pokes like me had the option of a 7 am early start. The regular start time was 8 am. Because it was raining in Oregon leading up to race day, the course was quite muddy and slippery. This made the course, which has about 8,000 feet of elevation gain, even more challenging. The race directors were super nice and didn’t enforce the usual cutoff times, essentially giving all runners the extra time needed to complete the course.

And, free beers after the finish!

DIFFICULTY
5
PRODUCTION
4
SCENERY
4
SWAG
3
My Media

Was this review helpful?

The 50K course has about 8000 feet of elevation gain and is not too technical. But it is not to be underestimated, especially as the temperature rises in the afternoon. … MORE

The 50K course has about 8000 feet of elevation gain and is not too technical. But it is not to be underestimated, especially as the temperature rises in the afternoon. Luckily, most of the course is shaded by surrounding trees. The first big climb known as the Power Line Climb was tough with 1000 ft of gain in 1 mile. Check out my video below.

The volunteers were terrific and friendly. Aid stations were well stocked. The finisher’s “medal” is a small medallion. It was so small, I don’t even know when and how I lost it. I also wish they have an official website, although most of the information on the course and logistics can be found on Ultrasignup.

The race was held in the Cohutta Mountains in northern Georgia, inside the Fort Mountain State Park, which is about 2 hours of driving from Atlanta. So I would spend a day or two to visit Atlanta before or after the race.

DIFFICULTY
4
PRODUCTION
3
SCENERY
4
SWAG
2
My Media

1 member marked this review helpful. Agree?

The Two Rivers Marathon is considered one of the best races for qualifying for the Boston Marathon. It is now in the Top 25 of Boston Qualifier times of all … MORE

The Two Rivers Marathon is considered one of the best races for qualifying for the Boston Marathon. It is now in the Top 25 of Boston Qualifier times of all marathons in the USA (a qualifying percentage above 18%). So, it’s a flat and fast course!

If you’re interested in running back-to-back marathons, the Two Rivers Marathon has got you covered too. All runners who complete the double will get an “I Did the Double” shirt. Those with qualifying times will receive an “I Qualified for the Boston Marathon” T-shirt. Unfortunately, I was not in shape to attempt either one of them!

Check out my video below.

DIFFICULTY
5
PRODUCTION
4
SCENERY
3
SWAG
5
My Media

Was this review helpful?

What's harder than running a 50-km ultramarathon in a fully exposed desert? Running on the sand! Lots of sand. The Old West Trails races (50k/Marathon/Half Marathon) start in an RV … MORE

What’s harder than running a 50-km ultramarathon in a fully exposed desert? Running on the sand! Lots of sand.

The Old West Trails races (50k/Marathon/Half Marathon) start in an RV resort and campground named Stagecoach Trails RV Resort and Campground in Julian, CA. The courses lead runners through some pristine sections of Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, including the Blair Valley and Plum Canyon. 50K and marathon runners experience about 2,500 feet of gain & loss, but the heat and sand really slowed me down. Bring sunscreen and stay hydrated if you’re running the Old West Trails!

Sceneries are great; see my video below.

DIFFICULTY
3
PRODUCTION
3
SCENERY
4
SWAG
2
My Media

Was this review helpful?

Whether you’re chasing 50 marathons in 50 States or not, you might want to check out the Mississippi Blues Marathon which is held in Jackson. This city sparked so many … MORE

Whether you’re chasing 50 marathons in 50 States or not, you might want to check out the Mississippi Blues Marathon which is held in Jackson. This city sparked so many historic moments which have arguably changed the trajectory of the United States. Spend the weekend in Jackson to learn about the important civil rights history that took place in this city, the roots of the blues, and soak in the famous Southern hospitality.

The Mississippi Blues Marathon course is a 13.1-mile loop so marathon runners run the course twice. There are some small elevations but nothing too hilly. The race was well organized. The bling was nice and there were plenty of Jambalaya and beers at the Finish. Although not a big event, I enjoyed running through the downtown area and neighborhoods. There weren’t many spectators on the course but I still had a good time.

Check out my YouTube video below.

DIFFICULTY
2
PRODUCTION
4
SCENERY
3
SWAG
3
My Media

3 members marked this review helpful. Agree?

The Fleet Feet Daufuskie Island race series operates on a USATF-certified 13.1-mile loop course of paved and unpaved roads. Marathoners run the course twice and ultramarathoners thrice, each time surrounded … MORE

The Fleet Feet Daufuskie Island race series operates on a USATF-certified 13.1-mile loop course of paved and unpaved roads. Marathoners run the course twice and ultramarathoners thrice, each time surrounded by postcard picture-perfect sceneries. Located just off the coast of southern South Carolina, the island is only accessible by ferry.

The racecourse is flat, which is perfect for first-time marathoners or those seeking a personal best time. Not surprisingly, it is a popular race for qualifying for the Boston Marathon. Situated between Hilton Head Island and Savannah, the race venue is not far from some of the best vacation spots the country has to offer, making it a perfect getaway for a “runcation”.

The races were well organized. The tent setup for runners at the start/finish is a nice touch. There was food and coffee and heating lamps to keep you warm before the race. Live music and catered picnic lunch at the Finish. Nice swag, including the cool bling (see picture below) and a nice jacket.

Check out my YouTube video below.

DIFFICULTY
1
PRODUCTION
5
SCENERY
4
SWAG
5
My Media

1 member marked this review helpful. Agree?

A very small marathon with sparse aid station support and virtually no spectators on the course. The cops were out all day directing traffic so I felt safe out on … MORE

A very small marathon with sparse aid station support and virtually no spectators on the course. The cops were out all day directing traffic so I felt safe out on the course. A relatively hilly course. Check out my video below.

DIFFICULTY
3
PRODUCTION
2
SCENERY
2
SWAG
1
My Media

Was this review helpful?

Harpeth Hills Flying Monkey Marathon is held in the Percy Warner Park, about 9 miles from downtown Nashville. With over 3600 feet of elevation gain, this is not a PR … MORE

Harpeth Hills Flying Monkey Marathon is held in the Percy Warner Park, about 9 miles from downtown Nashville. With over 3600 feet of elevation gain, this is not a PR course. There were no spectators to cheer you on the course. Aid stations were sparse on the tree-shaded course and strategically placed to nake runners do not go off course. They were well stocked, including one that served Bourbon and Whiskey! The finisher’s medal is made of wood and may look cheap to those who are used to metal. But, the long sleeve race shirt and hand-knit monkeys more than made it up.

Check out my YouTube video (second marathon) below.

DIFFICULTY
4
PRODUCTION
4
SCENERY
3
SWAG
5
My Media

Was this review helpful?

Nashville has taken over Las Vegas as the city for bachelor and bachelorette parties. And this city knows how to throw a party, even for marathon runners. High energy in … MORE

Nashville has taken over Las Vegas as the city for bachelor and bachelorette parties. And this city knows how to throw a party, even for marathon runners. High energy in the air with music entertainment along the course, which includes many iconic landmarks on the course, including Broadway’s honky-tonks, Dolly Parton’s recording studio, Country Music Hall of Fame. A little too hilly for most runners to PR on this course. Expo and Finish line is at the Nissan Stadium, home of the Tennessee Titans! The bling was super tiny and nothing fancy.

Check out my YouTube video below.

DIFFICULTY
3
PRODUCTION
4
SCENERY
4
SWAG
3
My Media

Was this review helpful?

The Greenway Marathon (& Half Marathon) is a low-key and small race along the Stones River Greenway, a popular paved trail for walkers, cyclists, and runners that winds alongside the … MORE

The Greenway Marathon (& Half Marathon) is a low-key and small race along the Stones River Greenway, a popular paved trail for walkers, cyclists, and runners that winds alongside the Stones River.

Runners start and finish the out-and-back course for the race at the Percy Priest Dam, which overlooks the J. Percy Priest Reservoir, about 10 miles east of downtown Nashville. The course is not flat but too hilly. Do not expect a lot of spectators on the course cheering you. This is a more of a meditative run along the peaceful Greenway.

Check out my YouTube video below.

DIFFICULTY
1
PRODUCTION
4
SCENERY
2
SWAG
2
My Media

Was this review helpful?

This is a must-do on your list of ultras. You run through canyon slots, including the famous Antelope Canyon, and alongside the majestic Colorado River and Horseshoe Bend. This race … MORE

This is a must-do on your list of ultras. You run through canyon slots, including the famous Antelope Canyon, and alongside the majestic Colorado River and Horseshoe Bend. This race course is very unique and is only made possible because of the generosity of the Navajo Nation. I’m not sure words will do justice but check out the video below.

DIFFICULTY
3
PRODUCTION
4
SCENERY
5
SWAG
4
My Media

Was this review helpful?

My Followers