I ran this race specifically in the hunt for the 'Red Oktober'. I hunt legends! This June, Sasquatch was almost in my sight at Anchorage Alaska's Midnight Marathon. It turned out to be a moose and her calf. Thrilling just the same! This time, I was sure I would spot this elusive Medoc who inhabits the Medoc Mountains. He was visible twice as a cardboard symbol, during each loop. He looked a lot like Sasquatch, without hair, or maybe more like Cyclops, with a piercing eye. At one point, I thought I smelled him; maybe it was me I smelled; then a push from behind. I went down. At my age it takes a while to get back up and orient myself to space. I guess Medoc didn't mean any harm. I continued. Very near the finish, I went down again. This time I was sure Medoc wanted to keep me in his beautiful environment. Didn't give him the opportunity. I finished!

The three loop course was beautiful and never got boring. The plants, trees, and bridges made it exciting, while the rocks and exposed roots forced you to be more watchful. The route was well marked, so there was no way to get lost. There were aid stations every three miles. There was even a portable toilet on the trail, not that you needed it with all the woods to use, unless bashfulness or fear of Medoc was in play.

A terrific race! It was well organized with attention to details and wonderfully attentive and cheerful volunteers. The mementos included a great technical long sleeve shirt with the colorful Medoc logo and a fantastic metal well worth the entire race. The medal is gorgeously designed, big and heavy with the legendary Medoc body bulk on one side, and elegant logo on the other side. The sash fabric has the eye-catching colors of the Medoc logo and boldly includes the date and name of the race. There was even a surprise gift at the finish line, a useful handheld bottle with a cell phone pocket or whatever you want to stash.

Michael, Frank, Scott and Ron-thank you for the parking accommodations and your understanding of my husband's condition. You were attentive to him, a benefit I did not anticipate or expect. Gratefully your, 'Jersey Jaquar' aka 'Jersey Girl'. I will keep that name.

Medoc trail marathon is a well organized, fun race. The course was the perfect challenge. Trails and course were well marked. Even after 6 hours and two race distances, the aid stations were well stocked (the lightly salted boiled potatoes were yummy and a great energy boost). Must do event for any marathon runner that wants to run trails.

This is my favorite annual run. The weather always seems to be perfect (between 40 and 45 degrees) for a fall run. Thre are some changes in terrain, but nothing that the average runner cannot tackle. In fact, this is the only trail run I have ever done.

I've only done 3 marathons, and this was my very first trail experience. I have to say that this race was by far one of the best organized and supported race I've ever done- and I've done plenty of big name races. The staff was friendly and helpful. The volunteers were organized and encouraging. The course itself was challenging and technical, but not so much that you can't have a great time. I will definitely return next year. Great job everyone!

This a loop course that takes place in the very scenic Medoc Mountain State park. My Garmin captured around 1300 feet of gain/loss. There is tons of support, with really well stocked aid stations. As a first time marathon, this course could pose a significant challenge. I recommend tossing the stopwatch aside and enjoying this event to the max!!! You will not a find a more spirited, encouraging group of race organizers.

This was my 3rd time running the Medoc Marathon, and each year they have found a way to make a great race even a little better! It is, hands down, the best value of any race around, when you factor in the low price and awesome swag you get. I love this race, and will continue to come back again and again.

I had a great time...well worth the 100 mile drive. The medal is awesome...very nice design.

I can't say enough good about the Medoc Trail Marathon. The course was interesting and forgiving - good since you do three laps. The organizers were the best I've experienced, providing detailed information with a good dose of humor. There wasn't an unending string of spectator support, as expected (and desired) from a trail race, but every supporter and aid station worker who was there made me feel like a winner. I especially liked the roving volunteers walking the trails with bells, water, smiles, and words of encouragement.

I can't say much more. I have both run this race and been a volunteer and I can say this is one of the best organized races around. And the trail is beautiful. Come see what its all about...but watch out for Medoc, he will get you!!!

The people who organize and manage this race are dedicated, competent professionals who obviously love doing it. My sincere thanks to them and to the team of volunteers who make this race possible. There are no surprises; packet pickup, parking, support on the course, showers after the race, etc. are all hassle-free. But be aware that this unpaved trail course is tough: rocky, rooty, eroded, hills so bad that you have to walk them. But even with all the difficult crap the course presents, the run is soul-satisfying in a way no easy course can match. You will come away with a feeling of pride, knowing that you hung in there and 'got 'er dun.'