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☰
Mount Desert Island marathon Runner Comments
Back to Mount Desert Island marathon Information & Reviews
Course 4.8 
Organization 4.8 
Spectators 4.1
Number of comments: 155 [displaying comments 151 to 155]
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Dave Weiss from Corning NY
(11/4/2002)
 "outstanding event in a beautiful location" (General Comments)
COURSE: 4 ORGANIZATION: 5 FANS: 5 The 2002 MDI Marathon was an outstanding event, which is especially impressive since this was the inaugural running. I like relatively small marathons in scenic places and this run fits that bill. MDI is a beautiful place and the marathon kept the runners, for the most part, in the midst of a breathtaking environment. Well, part of the breathlessness was due to the hills. I think there were some level places on the course, but not many. It is NOT 'fast and flat', so runners should be prepared for a challenging and rewarding experience. I think that MDI has a tougher course than Gods Country. I like hills, so it is OK with me. The organization was excellent, from registration through water stops to the finish line. Spectator support was enthusiastic and supportive without any big crowds. One area for improvement is the last 6 or so miles of the course which are on moderately travelled roads with not much shoulder. Overall, I think that this is a 'must do' especially for marathoners who like scenery and enjoy hills. I'll be back. | |
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A Runner from Marlborough, CT
(10/25/2002)
 "Fantastic!" (about: 2002)
COURSE: 5 ORGANIZATION: 5 FANS: 5 Where do I start? The day was perfect, the course was, as advertised, tough but fair. The support from the volunteers, as good as it gets. From the start at the town green in Bar Harbor to the finish in Southwest Harbor runners experience all that the Maine coast has to offer. There are pine forests, rocky cliffs, sea birds and, of course, the Ocean. Not to mention the small towns along the way and the view from the beginning of Somes Sound up to the 19 mile mark. All of this made the race my instant favorite (right after Boston). Stay a hotel at the start or a B&B at the finish. It dosen't matter, you won't be disappointed. I'll be back! | |
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A Runner from MA
(10/23/2002)
"a winner!" (about: 2002)
COURSE: 5 ORGANIZATION: 5 FANS: 4 my bias is towards small, home-grown marathons with unique finishes, scenery, or themes. MDI went right to the top of my favorites. the mountains, foliage and ocean were spectacular. many hills to keep you on your toes. great grass-roots feel. volunteers were obliging and enthusiastic. did i say many hills? organization was solid. finish and start lines were appropriately staffed and supplied. spectators were more frequent than most small-medium marathons. only minor complaint was that massages were not complimentary. i highly recommend this race, but not for first-timers. | |
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A Runner from New York City
(5/20/2002)
"Tough but beautiful" (General Comments)
COURSE: 5 ORGANIZATION: 5 FANS: 5 I have run the roads and trails of Mt Desert Island during the summer and fall season for 30 years and know the route well. The terrain is challenging but fair and every up has a down. I think the course may be comparable to Boston as far as speed. If the prevailing northerly fall winds are blowing it should be a nice tail wind from the start to 14 miles and again from 20 miles to the finish. Even the section along Somes Sound is protected by beautiful mountains and forests as you wind along the sea on a beautiful 'inland' fjord road so headwinds would be minimized somewhat. The scenic vistas are unparalleled on the east coast and will be a welcome distraction. The hospitality of the local people (particularly in the off season) is bound to be good. I recommend staying either at a Bed & Breakfast in Bar Harbor with many good year round restaurants, (or maybe one mid course in Northeast Harbor if traveling with non-runners) or even at the finish in Southwest Harbor if you don't want to travel 20 min back to the start after the race. Any way you go, this is bound to be a classic event and a great time. I wouldn't miss this one for the world! It takes about 8 hrs to drive from NY, 5 hrs from Boston ( or Amtrak now goes to Portland, rent a car for the last 2hrs). Marathon running isn't all about PR times and Boston qualifying. This one is as they say at the Maine border, 'The way life should be'. Go experience Acadia National Park and Mt Desert Island in the Fall. You won't regret it. (well maybe a little at 22 miles) | |
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A Runner from Maine
(12/8/2001)
"Inaugural Race" (General Comments)
COURSE: 5 ORGANIZATION: 5 FANS: 5 This will be a first ever marathon on Mount Desert Island, home of Acadia National Park. Superb organization directed by veteran marathoners and experienced race directors. Highlights include a point to point course that travels thru several quaint island villages, which will provide excellent spectator support. The route also travels past ocean views, mountains, lakes, and Somes Sound, the only fjord in the eastern U.S. The scenery will be spectacular during peak fall foliage. The course starts in the resort town of Bar Harbor and finishes in the lobster- fishing village of Southwest Harbor. Mount Desert Island provides many outdoor activities and recreational opportunities for accompanying family and friends, as well as world class accomodations and restaurants. A true classic race in the making with a naturally laid out course that feels like a journey as opposed to the trend of courses that sometimes feel contrived for the sake of running 26.2 miles. |
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