After reading the official website and comments here about the race, my wife and I decided to run the half in 2005. We found the course very poorly marked. We could only spot about 5 or 6 of the km markers. The course was also much too narrow for the number of runners. The only water on the waterfront marathon course was at least a hundred yards away from the road. We were closer to the highway than the water. There were VERY few spectators lining the course and no space blankets at the end despite a cool rain falling. We found the event OK, but nothing special.

I had only run a 5K and 1/2 marathon before this. I trained well and enjoy the marathon distance. The organization was great, lots of volunteers and very helpful. The port-o-pots were supplied and ample. Power gels were given on first water stop and then not until after the halfway mark which was frustrating. Gatorade was also lacking during the middle of the run. Scenery was beautiful and the course is very flat. Great experience in all.

I under ran my first, but going over the finish line I said to myself 'I can do that again.' I was advised by a vetran triathloner on the way to the race to drink chocolate milk before and after the race in order to cut recovery time. It worked exactly as he said. (If you read this, thanks!) Also they had great timing devices - mats at start, 21KM and finish and you had to cross all three. This is a Boston qualifier. I would recommend this race to anyone who wants to do a marathon - especially for a 1st marathon.

I really enjoyed the whole Waterfront Marathon experience. The race was well organized; I felt really comfortable with the start, the finish, the expo and support on the course - volunteers, bands, aid, fluids, signage and controls. I want to come back next year.

A great course held at the perfect time of year. I will make sure to run this marathon every year.

Toronto and it's people represent the best in Great Lakes cities. The marathon was challenging, scenic and well-managed - fans were numerous and supportive and genuine.

I have completed 2 full marathons before in 1987 and 1988. I turned 53 this summer. Only 3 weeks prior to this marathon, I decided to try to run it - 17 years since my last one. Needless to say I did not have time to train for this marathon. I do run on a regular basis and do step aerobics. My goal for the other 2 marathons was to do it without stopping and I did in 4:20 and 4:10 respectively. This one my goal was just to finish it and hopefully (because of no training) do it under 5:00. I ran for 2 1/2 hours - then walked for 1/2 min periodically. I finished it in 5:11. I could have done it in less time if I had pushed myself harder but I'm proud that I even finished it. If there is such a thing as enjoying a marathon - I truly did enjoy it. It was a very 'positive', uplifting experience and I look forward to doing another one (and hopefully finish in less time). Thank you.

My partner and I are from Australia and entered this race whist over in Canada...it was our first race and we completed it way ahead of what we thought we would run. The atmosphere was great and the course was very flat and fast.

I would recommend this course to any first timer.

I have been in several marathons all around the world. Without the dimension of a big international marathon this event has the energy and charisma to match them all. Thanks to the organizers for a fantastic day. Thanks to the people of Toronto for the warm hospitality. Thanks to all the runners and walkers because their energy carried me through all the way nice and smooth. See you again next year.

Although I didn't run a personal best, this marathon was by far one of the best I've ever entered. The weather of course helped, but one of the things I loved most was the new route that took us closer to the water.

And of course the spectators, especially the ones at the 33k mark; there was a group of 4-5 people and just as I passed them they looked right at me and cheered me on as if they knew me... I was so tired at this point... just that bit of encouragement meant so much.

I will definitely be back in the years to come.

-Amelia

There was so much support and cheering all alone the route. Especially the beaches between mile 20-23 where we all know the cheering is needed.
The volunteers worked their tails off, and made sure every runner had all that they needed.
My only wish is there were more shade on the route, but that is not up to the race organizers.