Donna Marathon Reviews

  Incredible Community Support

By DS about 2018

Review

This marathon is a very flat course except for the on ramp and the bridge in the last 3 miles of the race. I have ran 7 marathons and have never seen the amount of community support as I did in this marathon...phenomenal. The community not only cheers you on throughout the course (except the last 3 miles on the highway) they also provide water, Gatorade, oranges, bananas, etc. Combine that with the aid stations provided by the race and you had something available every mile. Also, lots of porta potties at the start and throughout the course, Very well organized event!

Would recommend a little more support on the bridge. This is the hardest part of the course and after having so much support on the rest of the course it was disappointing not to have the encouragement when the runners need it the most.

Race Tips

Unfortunately this year's race was unseasonably warm/hot. Be prepared for any type of weather.

Logistical Tips (Hotels, Restaurants, Parking, Discounts, etc.)

Would not recommend the Marriott Sawgrass Host Hotel. It is a pricey hotel and only average accommodations. In the description on the marathon website they make it sound like the start line is right near the hotel. That is not accurate. You have to take a shuttle to the start line and back to the hotel after the race. You have to call for a shuttle after the race unless one happens to be there. No shuttle schedule for after the race. Some of the staff were not very friendly. They do NOT have a late checkout so you have to be an elite runner or plan to leave your luggage at the front desk. After pressing the issue of having a need to take a shower before I traveled back home the day of the race they did allow me to use the shower in the spa. Also, the staff seemed "put out" to answer questions about the distance to the start line and the frequency of the shuttles.

  

By elb about 2017

Review

Well organized. Last 4 miles or so are brutal and brutally boring on divided highway with a bridge at mile 25.

Race Tips

This is almost more of a fundraising walk than any sort of race. Expect that atmosphere and level of commitment.

Logistical Tips (Hotels, Restaurants, Parking, Discounts, etc.)

Traffic is bad getting into parking lot. Plan accordingly.

  

By MS about 2017

  

By mt about 2016

  

By MM about 2016

Review

Such a great event!

Race Tips

It's a fast, (almost entirely) flat course.

  

By Anonymous about 2012

Review

Community support was phenomenal. Very spectator friendly, specific locations you could see your own spectators. Lots of big name running people to meet up close and personal, Joan Benoit Samuelson, Jeff Galloway and others!!!

Race Tips

Bring warm and cold gear. It was very cold the day I did it. Great race to BQ at!!!

Logistical Tips (Hotels, Restaurants, Parking, Discounts, etc.)

Omni is a great hotel. Close to the expo. Bus to the start or taxi to start.