Real runner feedback on course feel, crowd support, aid stations, and logistics (parking, hotels, restaurants).
Relatively flat and could have been real fast but 66F/100% at the start were not good conditions for me. Race officials were very nice. This was a big deal race for a sweet smaller town. Exactly what I was hoping for.
We stayed at a b&b 200 yards from the start.
I joined only about 60 other marathon runners for what I consider a top notch hidden gem. The town of Shenandoah is adorable. Quite picturesque and brought back memories of childhood before the country changed so much. The people are friendly and helpful. The event was very well organized, and there were more volunteers than runners. The support and cheers for this size was terrific. You will be running mostly on the packed gravel trail in the woods and will be shaded. At the end, you will be escorted by bikes to the finish line in the heart of downtown. For the size, this was one of the very best marathons in the country. It was my 31st State. I would recommend it highly! I stayed in the hotel just right by the finish line. Since it's an out and back, you get to see everybody running the race from first to last. Plenty of police and one emergency vehicle passed, so they were right on top of things for safety and security. So overall a 10 out of 10. Love the T-shirt, too! If I had to pick what I did not like: One water stop had political signs; but this was probably (hopefully) beyond the control of the organizers. The medal is a terrific, sharp jewel. However, it is wooden and I'm afraid it won't stand the test of time. If you are looking for an Iowa race, choose this one!
Flat course, so not much strategy. Mostly packed gravel. Only a few bumps. Water everywhere. Super support!
You can roll out of bed a half hour before start time at Shenandoah Inn right by start/finish. I loved the Mexican restaurant in town that also co-sponsored the race. Parking easy, everything is. Choose this as your IOWA race!
Great race-beautiful course on wooded trail. Temp is ideal and overall flat course. Great race support and friendly town
Early start by bus to start line and finish in town of Shenandoah. gatorade and water about every 1.5 miles. food, beer and music at finish. Also lots of free giveaways at finish. I won a watch and 2 pair of socks.
Stay in Shenandoah where race finishes-cool town and Shenandoah inn has early breakfast and late checkout.