Real runner feedback on course feel, crowd support, aid stations, and logistics (parking, hotels, restaurants).
I have been running all types of competitive races for over 20 years. The only thing Via has going for it is the minimally challenging topography may help for a BQ. This year we did a team relay. From start to finish, we saw no staff to insure the integrity or reliability of the teams. It seemed to be on a honor system as to if the age and gender qualifications, and leg starts of the teams were legitimate. At the end of the race, the personel were sparsely situated, not very helpful, and more focused on packing up for leaving. They even canceled the award ceremonies and, as a cheesy remedy, announced they would mail the awards.
Because of the finely crushed stone that was put down on over half of the course (trail part), it feels sort of like running on sand. It is very hard on the calves, and does slow you down a bit. I would look elsewhere if trying to BQ.
This was my 4th marathon. I picked it for a Boston Qualifier. It was in the middle of September and it was very hot and humid at the 7 am start.
Most of the race is on crushed, packed stone, which was not difficult to run at all. Bring your own fluids and hydration as due to the nature of the course, there were not as many water stations as they probably should have been for the heat that day. The last water stations were out of water by the time I got thee, so thankfully I had my own. Having said that, this marathon is so beautiful. The run along the scenic river, small towns and covered bridges is unlike anything. I stayed in the town of Bethlehem, which was equally beautiful with great places to eat. I highly recommend this small town race.
We stayed in Bethlehem at the Hyatt. Excellent walking location. Easy drive to the hospital for parking.
A train halted runners on the course for several minutes in 2016, which was obviously a disaster for many. It did not impact me as a middle of the pack runner, however. I think the race director/ organizers could have done a better job of responding to the issue after the fact.
Flat, rail trail course. Prepare for warn temperatures. After party was nice.
Ample parking at the hospital.
Easy to get to start, mostly on trail, easy to park near finish
A train crossing did stop the race but apparently that was the first time it's happened.
Because this marathon is "the last call" in trying to BQ for the following year, they get a high percentage of qualifiers. I ran it twice and had a much faster time at Philly which is 10 weeks later. My two friends who ran Philly and Via also had a faster time at Philly.
A good part of the race is run on crushed stone. I think it takes more effort than running on roads.