Queens Marathon (Spring)

Having run many races in Flushing Meadow Park ( or as us locals like to call Flooded Muddy Park) I was greatly surprised of how good this marathon was. Though it was a 6 loop course, the course never went around the Meadow Lake though it did go over and back on the bridge 6 times, which is difficult. Being held on April 20 you pass many worlds fair related monuments - The Unisphere, Tennis Center, NYs Pavilion, Skateboard Park, Queens Museum, Queens Theater, Queens Zoo and various other worlds fair statues. Since it was held on April 20 the Cherry Blossom trees were in full bloom making a beautiful view as you ran. The 6 loops are not as boring as it you might think and you are never alone on the course. Even Mr. Met was there. Great announcing and DJ was provided. The post race food in the Queens Theater was outstanding - Fresh Bagels with spreads, Bubble Teas drinks, Pizza, water, recovery drinks and Ices from the Famous Lemon Ice King of Corona ( I actually mixed flavors which if you have ever been to the store in Corona in forbidden). At first I thought the price of the race was a bit step for loops around Flushing Meadow Park but in the end it was worth the price. As always Elite Feats timing did a excellent job with multiple splits. The only negative I could thin of was the finishers medal. It was the worst marathon medal I have ever seen in my 40+ marathon races. It seems something given out at a 5k race. there were over 150+ finishers though the official lineup was about 300 starters. Many were listed as DNF on the Elite Feats website - Not sure why that is?

Course is flat except for the part over and back on the bridge- 6 Loops Very scenic course and the park is open so many other are out but they do not get I your way. It is easy to stay on pace if you figure out time per loop. Weather is perfect in April but next year it is moved to late March

Parking is easy in the Queens Museum lots. subway is also convenient but a 1/2 mile walk form the train to the start.

Pros: Mostly flat course. Four loops around Flushing Meadows Park. Great volunteers and race crews.

Cons: No shade. Not much spectators. Too many turns. Pavement is uneven and potholes. Portion of the course has swamp area with standing water.

Predictable course, with one slight hill as you cross a bridge that connects the 2 loops of the course. I think this is an excellent course to get into a rhythm and meet your goals.

Fast and Flat - no hills - no shade either - kids race this year as well. I am slow and this course is one of the flattest you can find. If your looking for a BQ or PR this is the course.

Weather can be a factor - The organization is well run and very enthusiastic.

They offer a hotel package at a local 4 star hotel with shuttle bus to the start