Morgantown Marathon Reviews

  A fun but very challenging course!

By Aaron Riddle about 2018

Review

The communication and organization leading up the the race was perfect. Constant updates were posted on Facebook and emails sent as well. Packet pickup was super easy with plenty of parking. I was a little concerned that I would have to take a shuttle to the start of the race on race day, but that was super easy as well. While the race does not have much crowd support due to the course, there are plenty of aid stations and rest stops with excellent volunteers. Overall it was an incredible experience set up by race director Jamie Summerlin. One last word of warning though...the course is VERY tough. They don't use the hashtag #yesitshilly for no reason...and this coming from someone that trains on mountain back roads!

Race Tips

Be prepared for some major hills! The total elevation gain of this race is over 1500 ft. I train in the mountains and thought it would be enough, but the hills still got me.

  

By MBM about 2016

Review

Hilly, great small race with beautiful route through all 7 wards of the city and straight through the main campus of West Virginia University.

Race Tips

Train on rolling hills and don't plan a negative split. Long downhill to start tbe race which means that the last mile is up hill.

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

Ample hotels in the area. Stay an extra day for some active recovery hiking at one of the local state parks.

  

By Nick B. about 2015

Review

This was a very well run race - especially for a first time event. The organizers and community made me feel welcome and appreciated. Being from the flat, Midwest, I found the hills to be challenging, but not impossible. Probably not a PR course. The frequent change of scenery, helped make the 26 miles go by quickly. One of my favorite Marathons so far! I'll be back.

Race Tips

Do your hill work prior and keep your pace under control. One of the most difficult hills as mile 26. Very good course support.

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

We stayed at a hotel on Van Voohis Road - about 3/4 mile from the start / finish line. I walked to and from the start area. The hotel was also near the WVU football stadium, so there were several nice restaurant options nearby - or you can ride the PRT downtown for more options.

  

By ATM about 2015

Review

The course was fun, many ups and downs and the occasional long, flat stretch. A couple of big downsides though: most runners reported that it was about a half mile longer than 26.2 miles, the second half of the course had sparse crowds, the race was alongside busy roads with vehicles that had heavy emissions.

Race Tips

Learn the course details in advance. Neighborhoods around mile 20 were poorly marked and at some turns, little assistance was present.