Pros
Course - Watching the leaders run by me as they lapped me was much more exhilarating than the "out and backs" I've run.
Because it was 8 loops, it was easy to plan for the water stations, and I didn't carry any water.
Start time in the afternoon with a finish towards the evening was very convenient for my schedule.
Crew - I could see that the volunteers were taxed by the large number of people registering the day of the race. This meant that they had to plan on the fly for extra water, cups, and other needs - everyone did this well and without hysterics.

Cons:
Course - It's not "scenic." It was run pretty much on an honor system and unfortunately a couple runners weren't very honorable about staying on the course if shortcuts benefited them. It's implied that with a flat course, this should be fast, but with several turn-arounds and multiple turns each lap, you'll find faster courses without looking too hard.
Organization - Could be better. My friend who registered the day of the race was able to get his number before I did, even though I registered weeks before. Both lines were about same size, but the day registration line moved faster. It took me 40 minutes to get my number and then I had to get in another line for my shirt. Since "packet pickup" was not supposed to open until 2 p.m., it was pure dumb luck that I showed up at 1:30. This led to a comical race to the car and changing my clothes in the car in hopes that I could make the start at 2:30. Fortunately they delayed the start.

I enjoyed this run and because of its proximity and the time of year, I will probably repeat even though it didn't rate it higher in stars.

I ran this marathon yesterday, which was my 4th marathon overall. I like the small-town races. This was it. Not a lot of frills, but the course was set out nicely with enough twists and turns to keep you busy. The repetition does get to you after 26.2 miles, but you know that going in. Logistically, there are some things that could be done better. One thing that was difficult was the start of a 5K, 10K, half marathon and marathon simultaneously, and dealing with the congestion that it caused. But this quickly thinned out and everyone got into a groove. The crowd support, while minimal, was enthusiastic. The organization could have been better. For instance, if you registered online then, there was a snafu and confusion as to whether you actual were registered. This all got worked out, however. Plus, there was a large increase in the number of participants that was unexpected. Regardless, I would recommend this race for someone looking to do a nice easy, end-of-the-year marathon. I may not make the drive again, but certainly enjoyed myself. "Go Larry!" Oh yeah, I got a PR out of the deal....

Having run a couple of mega-marathons recently, I really enjoy coming back to a small race like Run for the Ranch. I thought the organizers did a good job this year despite the fact that they had double their previous record turnout. (I think the perfect weather - mid-40s and clear - probably had something to do with that!)

The loop format is unusual, but since there are four races going on at once (5K/10K/half/marathon) you get to see a lot of different people out on the course, at least during the earlier stages of the race. And the two aid stations at each end of the loop mean that you see one every 1-2 miles, which is nice. Crowd support is just friends/family, which isn't surprising, but they can be enthusiastic regardless (like the group holding a sign and shouting "Go Larry!" at every passing runner, Larry or not!).

This is obviously not a big marathon "event" like Chicago or San Diego, but it is a great small-marathon race. I'm sure I'll be back again.

I loved this marathon! My whole family joined in at whichever distance fit their level. It's a great race for your non-running cheerleaders because they can go inside the gym to warm up and be outside to cheer you on every 5K loop. What a great way to end the year, then ring in the new one.

I like this race! It's the perfect way to end the year! You get to know what the entire course will be like after your first loop. It's neat to finish in the dark. It is a very "convenient" marathon. No crowds to fight getting to the start, and no worries about parking. You can bring your own bag of gels and stuff to leave near the start line, if you wish. You know when the aid stations are coming up (two each loop). You can be inside right up until the start time, and inside and warm right afterwards. It's a no-frills run... but quite fun! (No-frills also equals no hassles!!)

If you're not up to the full, try the half! (It's only four loops!)

I loved the small-town feel of this marathon. This was the 4th marathon I have run in the last year and found this race to be very tough, but as all marathoners will tell you, the challenge of finishing is everything. The fans that were there were great and I loved how they braved the cool 34-degree temp at the end. The 2 aid stations were nice and the had Hammer Gel at each with a variety of flavors. I will run this again someday, I'm sure. Thanks again, Springfield, for your hospitality.

A different concept, you run a 5K course 8 times. Also different is the 2:30 pm start. Means the finish is under the stars and moon. But by the time it gets dark, you know the course well. Does have some slight inclines. But for Springfield, MO, suprisingly flat. Has aid station at start/finish line and one at approximately 2.2 miles. But this is on every loop.

Good, informal race with proceeds going to support a boys' ranch. Nothing fancy, but extremely enjoyable. Not a big field -- 37 finishers in 2004. Simultaneous start with 5k, 10k, and 1/2 marathon. Approximately 200 total runners. Minimal crowd support -- only family members at start/finish. But they see you 9 times (including a 1.4 loop at the beginning). Highly recommend for Christmas week/end of year run.