Real runner feedback on course feel, crowd support, aid stations, and logistics (parking, hotels, restaurants).
Parking and restrooms are of no issue arriving at the Park. This race has almost no crowd to contest with. If your looking for a low stress race, this is it!! A great race to BQ as well!!
The beginning of the race goes through a nice neighborhood with mature trees, and a few neighbors cheering you on. The middle of the race has an out and back that it pretty boring and no shade, but if you have a cheer squad they can easily drive to a few locations to give a bit of inspiration (and hydration). The end of the race goes through some nice shady trails, which is nice to help further overheating, but the trails come with a couple turns, a small hill, and a bridge with a little bounce that make your legs wobble a bit. The crowd coming in the chute is loud and motivating!!
Fast and flat - BQed in 2014 - Great weather !!
Run it if you like small marathons without all the hype, crowd, etc ...
Consistent split course -
Merging with half marathoners @ mile 20 can give you a boost.
Comfort Inn, Dearborn is ideally placed (can walk to the start - 10 minutes)