Columbus Marathon Reviews

  Great Race Year After Year

By Nick B. about 2019

Review

Over the years, I have run this Marathon 6 times. Every time, it's been GREAT! From Expo to Post Race Party everything is top notch. The downtown start is super convenient for out-of-towners. Plenty of hotels and places to eat. And everything is within easy walking distance. Great starting line experience and the course scenery changes every few miles so you never get bored. Water stops are well manned and stocked. One criticism is that the on-course port-o-Johns are too few. The lines (especially on the first half before the half marathoners split off) can get quite lengthy. If you need to go, wait until mile 14 if you can.

Race Tips

Every mile has a Children's Hospital Patient Champion. When the going gets tough, look to them for inspiration. Give them a 'high 5' as you pass by and remember, your legs might be tired and your lungs might be burning, but every one of these kids would gladly trade you places. You are their hero!

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

If you are coming from out of town, stay on the north end of downtown. Head to the Arena District for food and drink. If you are driving in on race day, arrive downtown early (by 6:00 AM) and park at the Convention Center. (east side of High St.) Parking west of High or in the Arena District will have you penned in by road closures.

  Fun Course - Bad Gear

By JH about 2017

Review

I loved the course. I did not live the constant two miles of up hill from mile 19 to 21. It was my first marathon and I just signed up for another one so I'm still going!

Race Tips

Prepare for the hill from 19-21.

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

Get there early! Traffic was not good. We didn't prepare as much as we should've.

  Loved Everything

By Steve Calhoun about 2017

Review

Amazing run through many neighborhoods of Columbus and the best part is meeting the Children's Hospital Child Champion every mile. They inspire me to finish each year!

Race Tips

Get hotel room early and stay downtown. Columbus has great breweries too.

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

Get to the start line EARLY, you will want to soak it in.

  Great Race Experience

By nb about 2016

Review

This race is very well organized from beginning to end. Great Expo / Packet Pickup, start line, course support and finish line. The course is beautiful and offers a nice variety of environments...downtown, Old German Village, OSU Campus and quiet suburban streets. You couldn't ask for more in a marathon.

Race Tips

This race supports the local Children's Hospital and each mile has it's own patient 'champion' to help motivate you along the way. Take a moment and give a 'high 5' to these kids and their families. The rush of energy you will receive when you look them in the eye and thank them for being there is like nothing else you will ever experience during a marathon!

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

If you are coming in from out of town, take advantage of one of the downtown hotels. Great access to the start / finish line and lots of pre and post race dining opportunities.

  

By mtm about 2016

Review

Ran this race multiple times. The new course last year was a lot tougher miles 16-22. The first half is pretty fast and the last not so much. Save yourself for later.

Race Tips

Leave for the start line early, traffic is never good

  

By MLS about 2015

Review

I've run this marathon twice, and both times it did not disappoint. Typically the weather in Columbus, mid October is perfect racing weather (starts in the low-mid 40's- and ends in the 50's). Last year was a little warmer than usual. The leaves are changing that time of year, there is a lot of crowd support, the people are friendly. The race has fireworks at the beginning, and they do a good job with corrals and wave starts.

Race Tips

Wear layers, and The race is mostly flat, but there is a steady incline in the middle-late miles. If you live in a hilly area, this will not be an issue, but if you live where it is flat, you will certainly feel it in your calves.

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

Purchase the parking garage passes offered on the website, and arrive early (30-60 mins) if you would like to use the restroom.

  

By ls about 2014

  

By HJS about 2014

Review

Loved this marathon. One of the best organized races I've run.

Race Tips

Flat and fast course.

  

By DRB about 2013

Review

This is an awesome marathon. It's a flat, fast course that's very scenic and with great crowd support. The only negative (and it's an obvious one) is that the marathon is very large and crowded. But they handle it extremely well. The race expo was awesome too.

Race Tips

Columbus does it right. Very well organized from beginning to end. The high energy start was the best of any race that I have done.