This was the first year for this marathon, but it was really well put together. Driving there was easy, as was parking. The race started on time, and took us through the back country roads. I thought they were a nice mix of rural and farmland, and the flat-lands were mixed with enough hills to make it interesting. There were some roads that were not closed to traffic, but as long as you keep your ears open, you'll be fine.

It's a small-town marathon (so far) with about 400 people (between the marathoners and half-marathoners), but there were plenty of aid stations and spectators along the course, so I didn't have any problem. Race finish, results, and dry-clothes-bag pick-up were all straightforward, and the hot soup afterward really hit the spot. Also, the RD made a deal with the YMCA (less than five minutes down the road) so that we could all shower after the race - heaven! I'd recommend this to anyone looking for an end-of-year marathon.

The only thing that I thought could be better was to have more port-a-potties along the course. I mentioned this to the RD, and he said he'd address it next year.

I enjoyed every aspect of this inaugural race. The organizational details left nothing to chance. Packet pick-up at the YMCA was a breeze. The Y also provided shower facilities after the race for all participants. They even provided the towels. Veterans who participated had the option of having their bibs customized with their branch-of-service's name. Made it easy to identify the vets so they could be thanked for their service to this great country of ours.

Fluid station staffers were vocal and attentive. Spectators were scattered and spaced thinly, but they were supportive. Those that were out earned a five-star rating for their enthusiasm. Also, a huge thanks to the sheriff's department for the traffic control they provided.

Race course was extremely well marked with highly visible directional arrows painted on the road surface, and also with signage indicating direction of turns. Mile markers were highly visible red, white, and blue stripes painted from berm to berm across the roads. Road surface condition was good to excellent, with a stretch of dirt and course gravel thrown in the mix to keep things lively. About 95% of this race occurs out of town in rural areas, hence the unpaved section and low numbers of spectators.

I ran with my training partner through the first half, but ran alone the entire second half.

I'll take a race venue like this over a big-city marathon any day of the week. And, I'll be back for more. Thoroughly enjoyed the entire experience.

Great marathon to run. It's certified, flat and fast. Very well run; the jackets, finisher medals and place awards are top notch. Awesome support from everyone involved. I would say that you should put this on your calender next year if you can.