This race was my first and I was blown away with how organized every part of the race was. I of course didn't bother to read the info packets that they sent out since I had family over and was busy right up until go time (and we only arrived a few minutes before start). But even with our total lack of prep, the staff was great, got us to where we needed to line up, and totally made the run great.

The volunteers and the people along the route were amazing, standing out there in the freezing rain and braving the craziest lightning that I had ever seen. Of course I don't have anything to compare this race to, but from what I saw and experienced as a fist time runner... it was an A-plus!

The course should have been easy but was made tough by a 30 mph headwind. The high school marching band was fun, though.

This was a wonderful marathon run in the heart of Kansas. The people of Abilene definitly love having this event. The only problem with the race was the weather, and what can you do about that. There were 30mph winds out of the south for the whole event. We had to run into this wind for 11 miles and then a strong crosswind for 4 miles before we got it at our backs. Then to top it off, there were thunderstorms and hail for the slower runners (after 4 Hrs).

I think the race organizers should try and run a lap of 3-5 miles through the town before heading out into the countryside. There are many beautiful historic homes in Abilene that they could show off, but don't.

The pre-race dinner was very good. We got there late and there was still tons of food left over. There also had a prerace breakfast and post-race luch that was outstanding. The volunteers were great, however, they were the only spectators on the course.

As a small marathon, I would recomend it to all. However, just know going in that weather and wind will most likely be an issue, so don't go for a PR, just go to enjoy the this small town's hospitality.

I just finished the 2004 race - wild weather which included hail, rain and gale force winds. Despite this, I am definitely making this race an annual event. The course is rural and beautiful (through a park and then through the country for a nice early spring agrarian tour), the organization great, and the aid stations truly inspirational. The size of the race was perfect, it was awesome to see how the town really came out for the runners (despite horrendous weather), and the benefit (Red Cross) is great.

Prior to this marathon, I had only run big city marathons (Chicago 3X, Marine Corps, Austin) but think I am now a believer in high quality, well-run smaller races with a hometown feel. Thanks Abilene for adding a great spring marathon to my schedule. Perhaps next year will bring better weather, but I will be there rain or shine!

I an a native Kansan but my experience in marathons was limited to the Chicago Marathon. Instead of thousands cheering alond the course, in this race we would encounter those lone supporters who braved the cold bitter winds, who sat out in their lawn chairs at the end of their driveways in the country. Although a single hand clap and cheer may not sound like much to some people, toward the end of this race it meant even more to me because I knew it was 'truly for me'!

Community effort and attitude shined; locals' friendly efforts were great. Food and facilities were better than many established and higher-priced events. Location ensures reasonable costs for lodging and food. Springtime prairie-state weather is always dicey for marathons, so potential entrants shouldn't expect a high likelihood of calm winds or ideal marathoning conditions. Course wasn't bad, but certainly not spectacular; can't believe how many high ratings the route got. A few things need work: 1) the arrangement of space and lineup for the pasta dinner; some simple re-arrangements could have greatly lessened waiting and crowding for those sitting at the 'wrong' places 2) aid stations-- volunteers should be instructed by runners/race organizers to spread out more/have more tables and to fill cups with more than 2-3 ounces. 3) if a split timer at mile 1 is desired, have him/her be at the one-mile mark, not just somewhere in the vicinity. 4) a race this size (even with expected growth) doesn't need start-area volunteers with pace signs; these volunteers could be put to better use elsewhere 5) for a marathon with a web site, result-posting took longer than what one would expect (2+ weeks).

I ran the marathon and enjoyed the course. The cold, wind, and wind chill factor were cause for challenging, uncomfortable times. In contrast, they handed out sponges full of water in the latter miles two years ago in Omaha, because of the heat and no breeze. These are most memorable marathons because of the adverse weather conditions. If all marathons were a calm chamber of commerce 50 degree day with a flat perfect course lined with cheering fans, what would be the point? Where would be the challenge? Could that be fun? I gave the fans the highest count because the fans that showed up on that day to cheer us on derserve it. Just can't say enough about the organization, support, and friendship I encountered before, during, and after the marathon. Thank you organizers, volunteers, and Abilene. I'll see you next year.

This race was awsome it was cold and windy and I was wearing a tank top but it was all worth it in the end. The mini pizzas were the poo.

The Friday night pasta supper was great. Great small town atmosphere and race. The blustery headwind coming back made a true challenage. I would like to try the course again with less wind.

Despite the strong winds and cold temperatures, the volunteers and local fans were out in force, ensuring that all ran smoothly, safely and keeping the spirits of the runners, high. Dickinson County is to be commended for their warm and generous hospitality. Race organizers did a very good job, especially for a first year race. They were very accomodating and friendly. It was very well organized and run. I'll be back next year!