calendar icon May 4, 2024

Yakima River Canyon Marathon Runner Comments

Back to Yakima River Canyon Marathon Information & Reviews

Course Rating Course 4.8 
 
Oranization Rating Organization 4.8 
 
Spectator Rating Spectators 3.1 
 
 
Number of comments: 74 [displaying comments 71 to 74]
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A Runner from New Jersey (4/9/2002)
"Great Course / Organization - Highly Recommended" (about: 2002)


COURSE: 5  ORGANIZATION: 5  FANS: 1


This was my 56th marathon or ultra and my 27th state and it turned out to be one of the best marathon experiences that I have ever had.

My 50th birthday was the day before the race. The race director announced this at the pre-race dinner (which was very good, and a bargain for $6), and gave me bib number 50 to celebrate the occasion.

The race was run mainly on an asphalt road, a point-to-point course that followed the Yakima River from Ellensburg to Yakima. The views were among the best that I have ever seen during a marathon. The road was pretty much closed to traffic and spectators, which was fine with me, since I enjoy the solitude. For most of the race I could not see any other competitors either, and that left me free to enjoy the scenery. I was actually a little sad when I finished and wished that the race were a 50K instead.

The aid stations were well stocked with a variety of items, and staffed by very helpful, enthusiastic, well-prepared volunteers. The race T-shirt was excellent (with no advertising, whatsoever) and I got a nice finisher's medal as well.

The post-race awards banquet (included in the $55 entry fee) also was quite good and it was interesting to visit with other 50 States & DC runners from all across the country.

For me, it was definitely worth the long trip from New Jersey to participate in this race.
 

A Runner from Seattle, Washington (10/10/2001)
"Wonderful Experience" (about: 2001)


COURSE: 4  ORGANIZATION: 5  FANS: 2


This was a great race for those that dislike masses of humanity. The race committee was very friendly and helpful and the course is beautiful. As you run along the river you're likely to see wildlife, especially eagles. Although the hill at mile 21 can be an education, the rest of the course is very comfortable. The volunteers were great! Go for the peace and beauty in the company of friendly people.
 

Allan Holtz from Oakdale, Minnesota, U.S.A. (4/8/2001)
"First Class scenic marathon" (about: 2001)


COURSE: 5  ORGANIZATION: 5  FANS: 2


Fifty States and DC Group and Club member race directors Bob and Lenore Dolphin and their committee did an outstanding job of providing a runner friendly inaugural marathon. Not only was the desert-mountain-river canyon scenic course very enjoyable, the bussing to the start, back from the finish and for those housing at the start - bussing to the start again after the awards dinner was very nice. A low cost ($6) pasta - salad - cake dinner was served Friday evening before the Saturday race. Runners World writer and Eugene, OR, native, Joe Henderson spoke after the meal. They honored all 50 Staters with a 'You are Nuts Award' after the pasta meal (a Yakima Hard Core Runner's Club coffee mug filled with walnut halves). After the post-race dinner (baked potato, chilli, numerous toppings and salads and cake), which was included in the race fee, they awarded first time marathoners with finisher's certificates. Runner awards were even 5 deep for both male and females in 5 year age groups up to 80+ years of age. With about 415 registrants and about 380 finishers, this race promises to grow next year. While that 2nd hill at mile 22-23 is long, the payback is in the nice long downhill to the finish, the last 3.2 miles. Overall the race is a 400 foot downhill. Because the race road was closed to general traffic during the race, that made for a safe run. Race officials were patrolling the route in vehicles, providing an added measure of safety. Plus, this was my first Boston qualifying finish time in over a year, a span of 16 marathons. So it must be a fast course. The weather this year was ideal for running, temperature in the 40s, sky overcast. A great marathon and a nice drive (140 miles for those flying into Seattle).
 

A Runner from Central Washington (4/4/2001)
"Run the Yakima River Canyon!" (about: 2001)


COURSE: 5  ORGANIZATION: 5  FANS: 3


This marathon is absolutely gorgeous, highlighting one of the more beautiful spots in central Washington. Marathoners run alongside the Yakima River through the high canyon ridges. The course is mostly downhill with two major hills (one quite long and painful at 22 miles). Unfortunately, spectators are not allowed in the canyon during the race, but the aid station volunteers were incredibly enthusiastic and sort of made up for it. Everyone (runners and volunteers) were super friendly and supportive. This marathon was incredibly well organized for its first year and I would recommend it to anyone who wants a scenic and happy marathon experience.
 

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