Mobile Marathon Reviews

  No frills marathon

By TC about 2025

Review

This is a very "no-frills" marathon. No real swag, not a ton of fans, no pacers, etc. That being said, if you want to go fast and are comfortable pacing yourself, this is definitely great course to set a new PR. The entire course is run on paved roads through downtown Mobile. The "hills" are very minimal. A decent number of turns, but several long flat or slightly downhill straightaways. With it being a double loop you see what you are up against in the first half and can use that to craft your second half strategy. There is one awkward turnaround at a cone after the first half, but otherwise nothing different. While fans are minimal there are lots of water/aid stations so it is well supported from that perspective, however, there are no gels on the course so bring what you need.

Race Tips

Utilize the double loop to your advantage by getting a sense of what you need to do in the second half while running the first half. It is really easy to run the tangents on the turns and limit additional distance. Watch the weather, but you shouldn't have to worry about it being too warm in January.

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

Several hotels right by the start line. Super easy to navigate pre-race logistics. Small post-race party. Did I mention this is a "no-frills" race!

  

By KS about 2017

Review

You cannot use your headphones. This was almost a break it deal for me. The only reason I signed up for this one was that I planned to do the back to back challenge with the Mississippi Blues Marathon. That race was cancelled but, I decided to do the First Light marathon since I had traveled all that distance (from Colorado). I have run 8 marathons between September 2016 and mid-April 2017- this one ranks 7/8 with eight being the lowest.

Race Tips

It was freezing and there were some unexpected hills in the middle of the course.

  

By SH about 2017

Review

Small race, good scenery, great cause, easy and convenient to run! It's a great race to pair with MS Blues and they offer back-to-back medals and plaques.

Race Tips

Don't stress over your time in miles 14-19. They are the most difficult on the whole course. Smart running there should leave you with enough to negative split the last 10k.

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

Stay at the Holiday Inn, Downtown Mobile. It was very affordable through the race discount code, offered free parking and late checkout (only for people who booked in the marathon block though), was 200 yards from the expo, 20 yards from the start line, and less than half a mile from the finish. Perfect!!!