I loved this race. I ran the 20 as a training run for Chicago. It was well organized and the volunteers were so friendly and helpful. I run on the Fox River Trail regularly so I knew exactly what to expect on the course. The only reason I am happy to be running the Chicago Marathon is that I really need the fan support to keep me going. I was hoping with all of the race promotion that there would be more fans along the course.

I parked one block away from the start line, which came in really handy after the race when walking a block was manageable. The race organization was tremendous, and I think FV26 could win an award for electronic communication - which for obsessive runners was a treat. As for the course, I agree with most in the fact that it was scenic, but it is open, so beware of oncoming bikers, walkers, and dogs. There were two other races going on during this one and the course got pretty crowded by the finish. Also, I don't want to sound like a snobby marathoner, but having to pass gaggles of walking 3-hour-plus half-marathoners for the last 2 miles of a marathon when you can hardly lift your legs and you're trying to run a BQ became hassle. Also, be aware that the first half of the course is gradually downhill and the second half is gradually uphill. It's almost unnoticeable, but there are some more acute hills between mile 16 and 20 that will be very noticeable and having you checking your pace frequently. Now for what really matters: the medals are solid, well designed, and heavy. Very nice medals, and same with the shirt. Very nice, long-sleeve tech shirt. Packet pickup at several different locations was a very classy touch too. There are plenty of local restaurants to choose from, which you'll want to keep in mind since the post-race food is pretty basic - and it's very regulated. Hope you found some useful information in my review. If you like smaller (but not too small) marathons, with friendly runners and volunteers, and running on a bike path, this race is for you. It's the perfect antidote for Chicago. Be on the lookout for Christmas water table!

I ran the 20-miler and was amazed by the attention to detail for the runners of all three races. The aid station volunteers and crowds were great. I am so pleased with the experience from packet pick up to the completion of the run! EXCELLENT JOB by all.

As a race director and marathoner, you are looking for an event that has all the perks you are looking for. Well, this is your race. You may not see droves of people cheering you on, but all of the things that runners need, they did it right. Great aid stations and logistics, and it was runner-friendly all the way. I will be back next year for a BQ attempt!

If you like smaller marathons, it doesn't get much better than the Fox Valley Marathon. Plenty of free parking was available. You run along a beautiful scenic course with water views and lots of bridges. There were plenty of aid stations and enthusiastic volunteers. The race directors did a great job with organization and planning. They even congratulated runners at the finish line.

We were very lucky to have cool weather this year. September can be quite hot, and this would not have been as enjoyable a race if temps had been in the 70s or 80s. I would love to see this marathon put on in late October as an alternative to Chicago.

Suggested improvements: have more speakers at the start so runners in the back corrals can hear the announcer. Double check the accuracy of the mile markers - a few were off and this could affect pacing for those who don't use a Garmin. The post-race food was so-so (maybe offer more varieties of cookies and bagels/spreads). The soda pop selection at the finish was awesome! You don't often see that after a marathon.

Overall, great job by Dave and Craig!

I've run the mega races (NY, Chicago, LA) and they're fun, but I prefer smaller races and this Fox Valley Marathon is a great alternative for someone who wants a change from or prep for the mega races. Kudos on the inaugural. Great volunteers, too!

Before the race, I liked the group runs right on the course. Also it was nice that we could pick up the packets in multiple locations on different days.

The race itself had everything for those who enjoy running - scenic and clearly marked course, frequent water stops, friendly volunteers. It was just as good as Spring and Fall 50K races in Chicago, and as scenic as Bayshore Marathon in Traverse City.

I can't say enough positive things about this marathon. The course was shaded and scenic. It was very well organized. Not too crowded, and with the wave start it flowed really well. With a pace sign for every 15 minutes there were no bottlenecks along the way for me. The volunteers were great!

I visited St. Charles two years ago and decided to come back when they announced their inaugural marathon. The course was scenic and almost totally flat, with water and Gatorade at almost every mile so there's no chance of getting thirsty, and with a beautiful medal and friendly people. My only complaint would be about the tech shirt. I have a small frame and it's too big. I wish they would have had an extra-small option and in a different color. Even gray would have been better. Overall, a great race. I wouldn't hesitate to come back next fall.

Congrats and very well run race. Great fan support however was a bit thin late in the race. Just a few small suggestions. If you have many racers from downtown Chicago, perhaps you can have a pickup there. I'll still support Dick Ponds when in the 'burbs. The mile markers were not correct a few times, which was discouraging late in the race, as I live by my splits. I would also suggest that the mile markers be raised a bit off the ground and not right at the water station, as you lose track of them when focusing on water. Small suggestions but things to think about next year. Great race for a PR, which I did get, plus I beat my friend, which is more important! I will run this next year.