There is a reason I like small races over big races, and it is because of races like this.

Fans - who needs 'em to run a race?! The ones who were in their front yards or on their porches gave a wave or a clap or verbal encouragement, and that was all I needed.

Volunteers - outstanding. Very friendly and helpful. Since there were so many aid station that, speaks volumes about the community turnout for a race like this. The volunteers at the finish line were more than helpful and very friendly.

Organization - this was a race that kept giving and giving. I didn't get to the pasta dinner since I got in late, but the reviews were positive. Shuttle van service to the start, gel/GU/food on the course, towel at the end, awards handed out as you crossed the finish line, watermelon, grapes, BBQ, help with hotels, etc. This was more than I was expecting for my registration fee.

Course - challenging course. Nothing quite like running a race where you can take a 30-second break and read historical markers about the H&M feud. Running across the swinging bridge was pretty cool too.
Great race! May come back and run it again as my Kentucky race this time.

This course was cool, and I loved the people who would talk to you along the way, especially when I hit mile 13 and there were several people cheering you on to the finish. If I was asked, "Would I run here again?" my answer would be yes. It was challenging but great.

I was a little worried about participating in this race because of the "rolling hills," and everyone who commented on the race had 50+ marathons under their belts. But for a person who loves half marathons and has only been in 6 of them, the race was incredibly enjoyable and doable! I would encourage some serious hill work, because the hill after mile 6 was definitely something to be prepared for. But, I loved the atmosphere and the way all of the folks made me feel so welcomed. All of the wonderful things everyone commented on are absolutely true. My husband (who usually has to figure out what to do for a couple of hours while waiting for me) loved the event as much as I did! I'll definitely do it again and would recommend it to anyone who wants to explore something more challenging then the usual flat courses and large crowds.

This is a hilly, but fun course. The volunteers are wonderful! Sick of lemon-lime Gatorade every 3 miles? You won't have that here.... There were different flavors of Gatorade and PowerAde every mile. From the pasta dinner with the Hatfield/McCoy skit to the post-race festivities, it was an excellent way to spend a few days.

I have run this race each of the past seven years. What keeps me coming back? The very friendly volunteers, MANY aid stations, and scenic course that includes a suspension bridge crossing and a short taste of trail running.

Like any other race, this one also has some bad points. They include heat/humidity, two short climbs, slow moving auto traffic on some roads, and few spectators. However, considering the race location and the time of year, these are to be expected.

If nothing else, being able to see where the famous Hatfield McCoy feud took place is reason enough to run this race.

I've completed more than 200 marathons/ultras. This is one of the best. Friendly folks, well organized, beautiful green scenery. I try to keep doing new marathons and only repeat my favorites. This is one I would go back to.

I ran the half marathon this year, and it was a great experience. The course was challenging, but definitely doable. The race volunteers were the kindest, most helpful people I have encountered, and really made a difference! Very different from big-city races, but a beautiful course, and a fun time!

This race in indeed in the heart of the Appalachians, yet the course is not as hilly as one might think. One giant hill at Mile 6/7 and one looong toenail-losing descent at Mile 8. Half-way point crosses into Matewan, WV and the remainder of course curves along river bank. You even get to dodge golfers through the golf course at Mile 18! Although 25 miles of the course go through KY, you can count the race as KY or WV.

It was 70 and muggy at the start, so the hour-long thunderstorm was a welcome relief. Organization was excellent, as were volunteers. Unfortunately, those are the only spectators you will see....

Make sure to make reservations early, although the race director does good job of keeping registrants aware of hotels as they become open.

Dave Hatfield and crew did a GREAT job making this race the real McCoy. I loved how Dave mingled with the crowd at the start, creating a very relaxed and friendly feel. The $35 entry fee is FAR TOO LOW for a great shirt, a nice medal, two fine meals, and Blackberry Mountain to boot. If you're looking for something challenge, off the beaten path, then this is for you. Go easy up the mountain (miles 5 through 7-ish) - there's a bevy of bumps beyond that, and a killer hill just past 23.

While the course was challenging to me, I recommend this marathon. You will not find friendlier people anywhere. At every aid station (they were EVERY mile) I was thanked for coming to their race. The pasta dinner, which was included in the fee, was one of the best - nothing fancy, but really good food, and lots of it. The entertainment provided was great - they had a skit of the Hatfield McCoy feud. The actors were also at the finish line for pictures. Plenty of food after the race, as well as a special meal for the runners. The race can count as either Kentucky or West Virginia, so think about running it. The long hill at mile 6 was easier than all the smaller ones along the 2nd half. Not a fast time for me, but it was a good time.