Real runner feedback on course feel, crowd support, aid stations, and logistics (parking, hotels, restaurants).
This is a hilly course right up to a slight up hill finish. The temperature was middle 70's. I trained on hills for my long runs and I still had trouble maintaining my pace on the second loop. The downhill's toward the end was as painful as the uphills.
I would make this a training marathon for another fall marathon if you would like a BQ. After running this, you'll be ready for the marathon you would like to qualify on.
First part of race heads down hill then back up to start second loop. Finish not at start and the tail end has a short but tough hill 2 just short of 2 miles from finish.
Get out in from early as course narrows onto trail.
2-3 miles in. Almost as fast to "powerwalk" last hill as it is to run. good stretch opportunity to make a strong finish.
Yellowjacket Racing runs a very good race!
The course was awful. Hills, hills, hills.
Expect a gigantic hill near the end. Everyone walked up it.
Extremely hilly. If you want to qualify for Boston, avoid this race!
Save your energy in the early miles because the hills in the middle and end of the race will destroy you.