It's a flat couse, not much shade. First half of race, water stations only every other mile. Course was great; a small down-hill the first couple of miles. The last 13 miles were really flat. The last 5 miles were a strait shot through a busy street. The police did a great job holding the traffic. Not many spectators out along the course.

The course is fun. Only one big hill around the 5 to 8 mile markers. Organization and traffic control were great.

I ran the 2001 Valley half, and I just returned from running the 2002 half. The route this year was 100 percent better than last year, and everything else seemed more organized. I would try to improve the way the personal item bags were retrieved and returned. That was very chaotic. Other than that, great improvement! I'll be back next year.

I want to thank and commend the organizers, volunteers and supporters of the first Valley of the Sun Marathon for making it such an enjoyable experience. This was my first marathon. It was well organized, the route was pleasant and scenic, water stations were plentiful. The support of the spectators were enthusiastic. I couldn't have asked to make my first effort more successful. Will make it an annual tradition.

It was a nice race. The traffic control was excellent and in greater number than any other marathon I can think of. I would run your race again. Great turn out for first year!

Great overall race....other than the middle part of the race, there were a lot of fans...having the volunteers run a mile with us towards the end was a big help....the one who ran with me helped me pick up the pace a bit...It was nice that they announced your name when you crossed the finish line. I look forward to doing it again someday.

Good: Beautiful scenery of the mountains around you while running through farmland of the East Valley outside Phoenix. Easier Course flat and fast. Fully staffed water stations though far apart. Bad: Situated too far outside Phoenix. Horrible smell of manure when running by the farms. Except for start & finish, Low fan turnout (due to location I guess). Unorganized in not having enough medals & shirts for all runners at end of race. I've yet to see either and the run was two months ago.

I thought that the marathon was great. The only negative thing I have to say is that I had to drive an hour to pick up my race package and then drive an hour back home. Not everybody lives on the east side of town.