The Blue Ridge Half-Marathon was my first race but it was an incredible one to be a part of. The course was very unpredictable and challenging which made it a lot of fun. There were a lot of spectators out to show support. The post race activities were great. I have nothing but good things to say.

I did the marathon relay which was spectacular and I'm going to go back next year to run the marathon. The course is very challenging but the views are worth it. The organization is outstanding. While there aren't too many spectators on the mountainous portions, the ones that were there made sure they cheered for every runner. I didn't run the Peakwood portion of the race but my teammate said that the spectators there were incredible - even had set up unofficial beers stops! The shirts were great and I love that they offer ladies' cut. The medals are beautiful. The finish line area offered water, fruit, and pizza. There was a music festival on the same day so there were also beer and bands. My boyfriend and I spent a few days in Roanoke - the locals are super friendly and supportive of the race. Even though this race will kick your butt, it's a must do!

Loved climbing the mountain with my fellow runners and seeing the beautiful views of our city on the way down. This was my first time in the race and I am hooked!!

Amazing Marathon IMO. I've run Richmond Twice and thought it was great. The Roanoke Blue Ridge Marathon has the same great feel and fan support but offers a different more challenging run. It's small which makes it easier to access. However, it's big enough that your never alone and makes for a fun, scenic, and unforgettable experience. As A Roanoker living in Hampton roads this is my new favorite race. I highly reccomend it.

I ran the marathon relay. Loved every minute, although it is SUPER tough, especially Peakwood! Loved the shirt, the atmosphere, the volunteers, the crazy course, the spectators, the medal, etc.

Best race that I have run!!! Aid stations were great and you didn't know what to expect at the next one. Absolutely loved the cow in the road, gorilla, getting laid at station 17, and the funeral home sign! Wished the crowd would have been a little more rowdy at the finish line.

Even though I live in this city, running through it on this course puts this mountain town in a whole new light. Be ready for tough climbs and even tougher descents, but the views are so worth it! The spectators go above and beyond, and many of the neighborhoods even hosted block parties with refreshments and music for the runners as we passed. Finally the aid stations were phenomenal, completely stocked with everything you could need or want. I carried a pack this year, but I know now that I don't have to next time! There was so much water, Gatorade, snacks, and GU on the course that I even skipped a few stops because I couldn't consume that much! Could not have been better organized, everything about this race was flawless.

Well the day started out rocky. Set clock for 5pm instead of 5am and by the grace of god I woke up at 5:05! a.m. of course-lol. Then knicked both ankles with a razor that I never cut myself with! Then walking to race .75 miles from course, twisted foot twice... it all got better from there:) saw Bart & Frank at coffee shop for photo op :) then saw Pam Rickard for first time since Boston when she came in from first run :) then I did 1/2 in 2:47:28 after a goal of 3:15 :) couldnt of done that fast w/o hubby as pacer :) ALL & ALL AN AWESOME DAY-THANK YOU! (to clarify - where it says ran in BR marathon-I ran the BR HALF marathon 2013 and 1 other half marathon & 1 full marathon & 3 ultras)

Once you've accomplished becoming a marathoner, this race should be your next bucket list race. It's postcard perfect, and any finisher can claim to have run America's toughest road marathon. There's no shame in walking this one! The race is well organized and well supported with water stops nearly every mile. Visit roanokeoutside.com to see what else is going on at the time of your visit and plan a week long vacation because there is so much to see and do!

A very tough course with great views and plenty of spectator support. The true definition of a marathon. The mountains push you to your limit three times. The Peakwood drive section has many spectators that cheer every runner that comes by. That may be the toughest part of the course and all of the spectators really help you to keep going. After the grueling hills you see the mile 22 sign and there's no way you can give up now. I wouldn't change any part of this race.