I had a great time. People were friendly and helpful. All aspects of the race were done well. Would be happy to do it again.

This was my first marathon. Loved running past all the political wall murals, especially along the Falls Road. Organization was fine; they made it convenient to pick up the race materials (Thurs. through Sun., race was on Monday). Plenty of water and energy drink stations, as well as toilets. Race markers could have been more prominent (small signs on random lampposts, sometimes fluorescent green, sometimes white).

Weather was sporadic drizzle and overcast skies with some sun (actually perfect because it kept me cool). The race was listed as 'undulating' but I think it was pretty flat... never really sensed a slow 'uphill' section... only some nice gentle downhill slopes. Definitely will try to return for 2005.

I had such a good time running the marathon, but my feet really hurt.

I really enjoyed the Belfast Marathon. I am 18 and intend on running a few more. Slightly disappointed with my time of 3:40, but started too fast.

The start was great, but more toilets would have been good! Lots of people cheering at the start, and running through the relay change-over points was enjoyable - through a tunnel of cheering people!

There were spectators everywhere on the course, but the mile markers were quite difficult to see... and yes, the course is somewhat undulating.

However, I really enjoyed the Belfast Marathon and hope to be back soon. The medal was a bit tacky though.

It is a great advertisement for all that is good about Northern Ireland, and I hope that it would help to eradicate the stereotypical view of N. Ireland held by many people.

Go for it and run it!

Had a great time in Belfast. Went up there on the Friday night before the marathon. Went pubbing, clubbing, and all the rest. I had a ball - the people were great. I had been told that it was the best marathon run to do in the country, but my application was in a heap. I didn?t receive the fleece jacket that I ordered for 2 months afterwards ? a pain in the neck.

When the marathon started, I was feeling great, but very disappointed with the water stops. Cups of water, of which only a bit was getting into my mouth and the rest all over me. I stopped at every water station and didn't manage to get in enough to last. There were people all over the course, including the relay teams walking out in front of you. You had to dodge them. There was very bad crowd control at some stages. I had to negotiate crossing the road, as there were cars trying to get through too. The crowd was out in force, but very subdued compared to Dublin. Just wondering why there was nothing really to spur you on.

All in all, I loved the route, and I finished in 3:27 - a personal best. My legs seized up afterwards from lack of water, though. I?ll be back to run it again next year, though, as the city is great.

Oh yeah, the pasta party in City Hall the night before was a disaster, with hardly anyone turning up. The food was great, though, and you had to have a ticket after the first meal. I was still hungry and went back up for seconds and was told I'd have to buy another ticket. Is that mean or what? I mean, it only went in the bin afterwards. In Dublin you can scoop as much as you like. Oh yeah, the medal is another disaster. I would prefer something like a plaque and a certificate showing my time (only a suggestion).

Good running conditions, and I was glad to see the relay runners, because without them it would have been very lonely. I managed to run a PB 2 hour and 33 minutes, taking 75 seconds off of my best. Look forward to next year's race.

I ran this marathon in May 2002. It was an extremely enjoyable experience, with beautiful weather and enthusiastic crowd support. I definitely hope to return in 2003.

Will be running my second marathon here. Though the course does a a few mild inclines, it's the atmosphere that makes it so great. On the more remote parts of the course residents set up make shift water stations & give out candies. Can't wait for this year. Everyone makes you feel so special!!

The Belfast Marathon was the first marathon that I had run. It was on the 7th of May 2001 and it was a really hot day (for Northern Ireland that is!!!) It was a really enjoyable day and I would encourage any foreign marathon runners to make Belfast one of your races! The Belfast crowd are really friendly (despite what the news may let you to believe!!!) and will support you all the way. Look forward to seeing you on the 5th of May 2002.

Very well put together, chip-timed, with far more relayers than individuals, as numerous local groups raise large sums for many charities through pledges. This congests the course somewhat, but for mid-packers like me that's no sweat. Pray for cool weather, as long shallow grades add up to serious wear on the legs. 2000 was 'the best weather we've ever had,' meaning altogether too sunny and warm (despite May 1 date and northern location) for a good effort.
Next to no Americans there, which actually surprised me, though I'm aware of recent bad PR. Felt absolutely comfortable and secure. Note: Do sign up for pre-race banquet: Belfast City Hall, carpeted reception chamber, embossed china, music, etc.