I cannot imagine a first-year marathon being organized any better. Fantastic job. The course is very fast, mainly downhill, with some small rolling hills and a mix of towns and countryside. Crowd support can be sparse at times (what do you expect running down the side of a mountain?) If you are looking for a Boston qualifier, this is it. I was, and I PR'd by over 15 minutes.

The field was small but the race was great. The spectators were few but unbelievable! The course had a lot more inclines than what was shown on the website. There were no race clocks throughout the race and I forgot to wear a watch, so I had no clue what time I was running until I came into the stadium to end the race.

This was my 18th marathon and I set a P.R. by almost three minutes. This was probably the fastest course I have run.

There are some small hills mostly from miles 18-23 but you should be so far ahead on your time from the 1600' decline before them that they will be a welcome change. I also thought for such a rural course that the crowd support was pretty impressive.

P.S. I do not recommend the Best Western hotel. It is outdated and probably the noisiest hotel I have ever stayed in. If you must stay there, request a room far away from Main Street. There is a bar with bands playing there on weekends and then people hang out under your room until 3:30 a.m. yelling and blowing their horns.

I enjoyed the fact that all the roads were closed, nothing better than a totally traffic-free course. Many more declines than inclines, and well shaded country roads. Spectators were sparse due to the remote area, moreso than due to the road closures.

Volunteers were the best!!

This is a great race, especially if you enjoy running in solitude on rolling country roads. The best part was that most of the roads were entirely free of traffic. The local residents, instead of complaining about being inconvenienced, continually cheered me along.

The volunteers were outstanding, and remained remarkably upbeat, even after waiting for the last finishers.

I recommend this race, and I will return in 2007.

The course is scenic along country roads with no traffic because of road closures. The race has a personal feel, with many friendly spectators and working volunteers all throughout the course, with fewer runners. Both fans and working volunteers cheer, yell out your number and make eye contact with you throughout the course. Together with talking to other runners I met during the race, I was thrilled and never bored the entire course. Although the drop in elevation is the greatest east of the Mississippi, the course comprises many ups and downs, providing a real sense of accomplishment in completing the course. The announcer says your name and time as you cross the finish line. I cannot wait to run my next race.

This was my seventh marathon, and so far the best event I have attended. For an inaugural event, the organization was outstanding from pre-race to finish. I loved the road closings! No traffic hassles (of course, few spectators too, but my wife was able to reach the course 3 times) - course downhill and scenic... you can definitely PR here. This race is only going to get bigger and better. Volunteers were terrific, both in number and in spirit.

There were as many hills as drops. The course was beautiful but quiet. If you're looking for big crowds, this isn't for you. The race had a great vibe; the organizers and community should be happy with the results. I was...

The course was more challenging than I anticipated, but the sections through the woods were fantastic - beautiful scenery, mostly downhill, few distractions. Relatively flat start, then lots of down grades, then rolling hills towards the end. The organization and volunteers were great - everyone was friendly and helpful. Spectators were sparse, but enthusiastic. I would definitely do it again.

This was my 46th marathon I've finished, although I've been out of commission for almost 3 & 1/2 years due to running-related injuries. It was a great marathon to come out of retirement for! The race was well organized in every way. Just wish the weather was a bit cooler with some cloud cover to boot. I sandbagged the last 8 miles (ran & walked) & still managed to finish under 3 hours.