This was a great little trail race. Definitely not a PR course, of any kind. The elevation gain/loss is in the 3100 ft range. The course was a beautiful trail, but it will vary greatly based on the amount of recent rain. I was running in wet shoes within the first mile, but that is the sacrifice for running a trailer. The volunteers were awesome and very enthusiastic. I could tell that most were first time volunteers, but they were totally awesome. Safety was definitely monitored like a hawk. I'm already signed up for 2004.

Regarding the course: It is just hilly. But it is soft (trail). So, it will tax your cardio and lungs, but relatively easy on the legs. Of course, after 26.2 miles, it won't feel so easy on the legs. The trail hits the streets a few times, but only for very short stints. The water stops are pretty reasonable. I didn't carry any of my own fluids, and I did fine. Very friendly race also!!

The course is very nice with both valley sections and ridge lines (though no actual vistas), a few pine forest sections and a lakeside finish. The race was well organized with water, Gatorade and snacks at the ample aid stations. The point-to-point format along with ample hills generate a satisfying feeling of accomplishment.

This was my first exposure to trail running. I've run in the woods with various running groups but never as a marathon. We did a lot of jumping over downed trees and streams. Therefore, the next day my upper thighs were more sore than usual.

The weather ended up cooperating with us - no snow. The organizers were very aware of where everyone was on the trails. Near the end a 'runner' came by to take our numbers for a count.

The volunteers consisted of the people (club) who built the trail and some of the locals. I learned a lot about the history and wildlife of the area.

I'm a 50 State Marathoner so I was running this for Indiana. Otherwise I would make this an annual event. I would highly recommend this to anyone who wants to try something different (but not for a PR).