This is the second year I've run the Fox Valley half-marathon. Even though my body may not want to do the run, I find myself wanting to sign up for a third year because of the great scenery of running next to the river, along with the fact there is easy parking, great organization overall, cheering volunteers throughout the course, and nice medals at the finish line. I never feel claustrophobic because of too many runners, so I can pass (and be passed) throughout the race.

I thought everything from the start of the race to the finish was first class. The preparation that went into the race must have been incredible and it certainly showed. Volunteers, course, water, everything was better then I would have hoped. Thank you all, I'll be running next year.

The course is beautiful, the spectators were very supportive, and it was easy for my family to get to MANY points along the course to cheer me on. That said, I have two somewhat negative comments to make. First, when you picked up your packet, you had to have your bib number. None of the bib numbers for the men were listed. Thus, all of the men went into one line (the line I needed to be in to get my packet). The process was delayed further when some people in front of me were picking up packets for at least 7 other people. I think that people picking up packets for others should be placed in a separate line, and I think that the men should have moved to the weather-flex option line, as really no one was there and many of the men around me had signed up for that option. Second, I did not like the little off-shoot loop around mile 20 and the figure 8 the marathoners did around mile 22. Mentally, it was difficult to, in a sense, 'retrace' your steps at that point.

Well run. Everything was great... Just 2 negatives: i spent 16 minutes total in line for the first few portapotties (my watch verifies the time that i stood and stood and stood).... 2 potties at each of the first stops was woefully inadequate!!! I (like others, apparently) have a 'problem' when i run.... The first few miles find me stopping at every bathroom..... The lines were long and many other runners were just as frustrated as me. Also, i am slow... There were virtually no volunteers or marked paths during the last part of the 20 miles... The run through the park! I was worried that i had made a mistake....

Perfect weather helped. Course is interesting and mostly flat with a couple of short hills. The only criticism is that it has a few 90 degree turns and some goofy loops to add on for the marathon. The volunteers were great. I walked a mile from my hotel to start and limped the mile home at finish so it was convenient.

After 4 years running the Chicago Marathon, I was looking for a more convenient, affordable, and less crowded event. The Fox Valley Marathon did not disappoint! The overall organization was excellent, the course had plenty of shade and was clearly marked, and the post-race amenities were great. Don't expect huge numbers of spectators, but they are every bit as enthusiastic as those in the bigger races. I'll be back in 2013!

I wrote, pleading to change races because of an injury. No, I didn't buy your 'Weather Flex' plan BUT I offered to pay a few or do WHATEVER NEEDED to honor it and work WITH YOU, and you turned me down. I ran the race on an injury because I traveled LONG DISTANCE and was spending lots of money to be at your race. You showed me that you are a business only, and don't care for runners and our safety. I will let everyone I know in Denver to not go to your race because you don't care about us, runners  period. It only takes a second to do the right thing. You choose not to do that. I will never forget your unkindness and not recommend your race to anyone.

Liked the course, great weather, nice shirt overall good experience

This is my second year running the FVM. Last year I finished the full, and this year I ran the 20. I cannot say enough great things about this race. Well communicated, close to home, great price, AWESOME volunteers, scenic route, and overall just a positive experience. This series will be a part of my running events for years to come!

Lots of water stations, great excitement and hype, excellent packet pick up, really organized.