Miles 4-8 are hilly and the course flattens out after that. Pacing in the first half is key. The race is very well supported and there is great swag.
Race Tips
Hill training is a must, in preparing for this race. There are rolling and sustained hills, from miles 4-8. After that, there are a few rolling hills. The weather is anyone's guess. Race conditions have been from the low 40's to 70's and clear to rainy. Watch the weather and pack gear for any weather conditions.
The best areas to stay in are South Central and Southeast. There are great restaurants, in those areas. The downtown area has been revitalized and has some great spots as well.
5 /
5 Stars
By TJS about 2013
Review
For a small town race this marathon is very organized. The weather the first weekend in November is generally cool (40's) and it happened to be a little windy (13 mph winds) but weather was not a negative.
The course is simple. It gets a little more "exciting" the second half but I ran by myself most of the time. There are definitely several "rolling hills." Nothing awful but a lot of elevation changes.
The water/ gatorade was very consistent and available at EVERY even number mile split for the full (and even more towards the end). They offered some sports beans but some sports gel would have been better. I brought my own and I'm glad I did.
Also- The 2013 long sleeve race shirt is hands down the BEST shirt I've ever received from a race. (And I've run A LOT of them!)
Race Tips
There are pace groups but nothing faster than a 3:30 so if you plan to run faster than that you are on your own!
