Half Marathon Comments:

A late start, the race started at 9:30 a.m. instead of 9 a.m. due to one of the water supply vehicles breaking down before the race. There was a lack of water stations and some of them ran out of water.

Lack of water + Hot sunny day = A difficult run.

On a positive note, the course was flat and the surroundings nice.

Fab first marathon. The delayed start got me edgy, the heat was difficult and the lack of energy drinks made it difficult for me as a first-timer. All that said, I thought it was great. I will be back!

A late start, and marshalls who were bussed in and obviously didn't care about the race made a poor first impression. After about 5 miles it was evident that there where going to be problems with water due presumably to the unexpected heat. At 12 miles, the marathon runners where becoming anxious as it became apparent that the much needed water stations where dry. Many like myself resorted to picking up discarded bottles for any left over fluids as heat stroke became a real threat. The was one isotonic drink provided, but my fuel plans had relied on more, as promised in the programme.

On a positive note, the course was flat and it was pleasant up by Fairhaven and St. Anne's. The last 6 miles where psychologically difficult as they involve running past and 3 miles away from the finish, before returning for the final run in. This was my first marathon, and it hasn't put me off! Next year I'll be back.

Full Marathon Comments: The race was supposed to begin at 0830, but didn't start until over an hour later. The water stations were 3 miles apart, and between two of the stations, they ran out of water. People were stopping to buy water along the beach route because of the heat.

Great day. I ran in the half marathon - a shame about the delay at the start. There was no water left at the first water station, but plenty at all the others. Really enjoyed the experience and 'WILL BE BACK' next year.

My first marathon. No water for miles, late start and lack of marshals. I hope the organizers take a lesson and better themselves for next year, or runners like me will not be back...

As the winner of the first Blackpool Marathon, I find the comments for the 2005 race very sad. Over 2000 runners in the first race, and under 900 (mostly unhappy) in 2005? What went wrong Blackpool?

Same as many others - poor organization all round. Lack of drink stops, and having no energy drinks at all between 5 and 15 miles was disgraceful and possibly dangerous. Poor finish too - no shade, no offers of help.

I can confirm the other comments, late start, lack of water, etc. Spectators mostly great but spoiled by a few individuals who amused themselves by shouting abuse at runners, something I've never experienced before. Signage for the car parking was rubbish as well, took me straight into a dead end & I had to park some 2m from the start. Nice flat course though - great potential if the organizers can get their act together...

A late start, and no water for 7 miles in the middle of the race (which was run in temperautures of ~28C).