Best hotel to stay at is probably the Delta or the Hilton because it is a quick walk from the event.
5 /
5 Stars
Family fun
By R.Scoville about 2019
Review
Great atmosphere family fun good food.
Race Tips
Hydration is key, strength training is important part of marathon training to be able to beat the hills keep endurance. pacing very important.
5 /
5 Stars
The Into the Night Run is so cool
By Curtis about 2019
Review
Into the Night 5K is awesome
The main day races are great
What I don't like;
The Event is somewhat unorganized, mostly the volunteers inside the building don't know what's going on I understand it is volunteer and they are hard to find, maybe brief them better The night run this year didn’t go down the boardwalk in front of Market Square but behind the stage, this way was kind of crappy in the dark with all the stairs The course maps weren't right this year, I don’t think anyways I’d help out prior and even offered after last year but didn't hear back Promote it more, newspaper, TV, online,radio. It’s a great great event but I don't think it's gets the coverage it deserves and it could attract more people to run, volunteer and watch and support it.
5 /
5 Stars
I gave my all
By Mandy Tomsons about 2019
Review
I loved the course for the half marathon. I thought it was pleasant yet challenging. I didn't like where the time clock was at. When, I crossed the finish line, I turned to look back and couldn't see my time as the clock was facing oncoming runners. Maybe add a second timer or one that can show on both sides as I liked having my finish line pictures with my time showing. Loved that there was drinking at every 2k.
Race Tips
I gave my all on this run and it was my 3rd 21.1k run and I beat my own time by 7 minutes. Stretches are very important as Saint John is a very hilly city. Expect to be cold in the am as you dress for the run not for the cold. Manawogonish rd was refreshing to run through.
I stayed at the Days Inn on Garden St. The old Colonial. It is close to uptown. Walked it for the race in 10 minutes, so I didn't have to worry about parking. Maybe some hotels nearby could give runners a group discount. Arrive at the race about an hour before. Use bathroom, drink, stretch and stretch.
5 /
5 Stars
Beautiful marathon course
By Jenn about 2019
Review
It was very well organized. The course was amazing and very scenic.
Race Tips
Arrive a bit early to warm up with the crowd and make a friend!
5 /
5 Stars
New Annual Tradition
By CK about 2019
Review
The route was great and the view was even better! Loved the Port City Challenge(s) and how you had a night to recover between races.
Race Tips
Step outside for a bit before heading to the start line. The Weather Network said it was 10 degrees at start time, but it was much warmer than that!
The Hilton is a short walk. The Delta is even closer.
5 /
5 Stars
A great racing event
By BT about 2019
Review
It's well organized! They have a fun Port City Challenge which makes you feel like you’re really accomplishing a feat. Plus the warm welcome and hospitality is top notch
Race Tips
There are some significant hills! It can also be a little cold for the summer because of the proximity to the ocean
5 /
5 Stars
Good course
By Anonymous about 2019
Review
Good course. offered the challenges but was also rewarded with downhill portions.Overall good course. Wished the time was posted at the end.
5 /
5 Stars
Welcomed with opened arms
By LA about 2019
Review
Almost every stretch of the race had people supporting and cheering the runners; even the slow ones like me that were near the back of the pack. I loved the solo and bands that played for the runners at various spots along the route; especially the group that greeted you at the top of the first big hill.
The night run needed the volunteers to have some flashlights and some of the key spots; along the stairs and where there were pot holes, they were difficult to see and some people had some footing issues. It would have been terrible if someone who was doing the challenge runs hurt themselves during the fun run portion.
Race Tips
Take the time to look around when you run there is lots of beautiful views along the route. Pace yourself going up the hills there seems to be an unending supply of them, lol. The start of the race may be cool but don't be fooled if it is a sunny day you will warm up (wear shorts and tshirt not long sleeves and pants). There was a descent amount of shade during the run to give you a break from the sun.
Lots of street parking if you are willing to walk a bit. FYI the race start/finish is at the bottom of hill, all parking will require you to walk up some sort of hill at the end of your race.
5 /
5 Stars
Great time!
By LM about 2019
Review
I only did the 5k route of this race but it was a great time and nice run by the water.
5 /
5 Stars
Loved Marathon by the Sea!!
By LS about 2019
Review
I loved the atmosphere, difficulty level and views! Nothing more incredible than smelling the salt air while competing with people from all over the world!
Race Tips
Make sure to pace yourself. This route has some impressive hills and you don't want to burn out.
Staying uptown is the best way to really enjoy Saint John. The food along King St, boardwalk or near the water front are bar none. Make sure to arrive with enough time to get pumped up from all those around you.
