Real runner feedback on course feel, crowd support, aid stations, and logistics (parking, hotels, restaurants).
Pros: Great organization, well kept aid stations, awesome starting location and pleasant finishing area. I also really enjoyed running in the Air Force base-- a great number of military personnel came out to cheer us on, which was welcome because this race lacked spectators outside of the start and finish.
Cons: Long stretches of empty roads- I need a little more distraction. I would rant this 4/8 on the marathons that I have run between Sept 2016 and mid-April 2017- behind Big Cottonwood, RnR New Orleans, and Go! St. Louis.
Easy start. Not a huge race (participant wise) which was nice. Note that a marathon relay is run concurrently.
Flat and fast. Small marathon if you don't like the crowds. Reasonable entry fee.
Only 300 entrants so friends and family can see you 3 to 4 times along the course and get to the finish line without getting caught up in traffic. Great spot for finish lots of sports bars.
Stay at the finish line and take bus to start.
Very well organized and great finish location at Westgate. Fantastic course support for a smallish marathon. Affordable also!
The first 3 miles are gentle downhill but the rest is pancake flat. Not sure why they rate this as a "downhill marathon."
If you're unfamiliar with the area it can be a little challenging finding the starting area.