calendar icon May 3, 2024

Sunburst Marathon Runner Comments

Back to Sunburst Marathon Information & Reviews

Course Rating Course 3.7 
 
Oranization Rating Organization 4.1 
 
Spectator Rating Spectators 2.9 
 
 
Number of comments: 197 [displaying comments 191 to 197]
More Comments: [ < 1 .. 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 > ]

 

A Runner from Chicago, IL (6/15/2001)
"Hall of Fame....to Notre Dame" (about: 2001)


COURSE: 4  ORGANIZATION: 4  FANS: 4


By the end (5+ hours ? my slowest yet) I was extremely grateful for the early start (6:00 a.m.). The start was well organized and decorated, but was not directly in front of the College Football Hall of Fame.

There were sufficient aid stations and spectators through most of the race. Toward the end the traffic control got a little too thin. Two runners ahead of me had to stop for some cars. Some beautiful river scenery scattered throughout the course. The only thing that I did not like was the steady hill from mile marker 24 all the way to mile marker 25. By that time I was tired, it was warm, and there was little shade.

The stadium finish was a great incentive and perk, but my friends all ended up with sunburn. Maybe that is why they call it the Sunburst Marathon. It would have been nice for the marathon to provide a spectators guide with suggested spectator viewing areas. Parts of the course that would have been great for spectators were inaccessible (like Pinhook Park ? Mile 4).

Good website! I really liked their graphics of the course ? not just a map but an elevation diagram, too. It had lots of other good information and links to other sites pointing out things to do in the area. My spectators and I took in the Greene Township Lions Club 32nd Annual Strawberry Festival at Camp Millhouse the afternoon following the race, and had a great time.
 

A Runner from Auburn, Michigan (6/10/2001)
"Scenic, diversified course with incredible finish." (about: 2001)


COURSE: 4  ORGANIZATION: 5  FANS: 2


Sunburst was my second marathon. It was a warm sunny day, a little too warm, but there was plenty of water and FR. I was in contact with the director via email and she was VERY prompt in responding! The volunteers were friendly and the race was well organized. The finish is overwhelmingly spectacular! Notre Dame stadium is full of electricity even when the stands are empty! It makes you feel like you could sprint the last 385 yards!
 

A Runner from Alabama (6/10/2001)
"Great community showcase...well organized" (about: 2001)


COURSE: 5  ORGANIZATION: 5  FANS: 3


This is a very nice course along the river in South Bend and Mishawauka. Low humidity and cool temperatures in 2001 (probably 74 @ noon) There were a surprising number of marathoners from throughout the country. There were other events (5K, 10 K) going on at the same time, but they have staggered starts so there is no interference. There is a lot of community involvement in this event...I felt it was a very impressive showcase for the city. The race was a good value for the entry fee charged...it is a 'big time' event with a personal feel. More water stations and portapotties than advertised !! The finish in the stadium was a big 'up' for me (worth the hill climb at mile 24). You will not be sorry if you choose this for your spring marathon !!
 

A Runner from Holland, Michigan USA (2/12/2001)
"Be sure to watch the movie Rudy before you run!" (about: 2000)


COURSE: 4  ORGANIZATION: 4  FANS: 5


Have run it twice now.
Nice that it starts at 6 am to beat the heat.
South Bend folks very supportive... some wonderful family had fresh strawberries and watermelon at mile 16 in 2000.
Great finish in Notre Dame stadium.
Very well organized.
 

A Runner from Lincoln, Nebraska (6/13/2000)
"Want to feel like Rudy?" (about: 2000)


COURSE: 5  ORGANIZATION: 4  FANS: 2


There are not too many things more inspiring than Touchdown Jesus. Unfortunately, you don't see Him until the end in which you race through the historic Notre Dame tunnel and to the 50. The run in 2000 was horribly hot and humid. I'd never seen so many resort to walking (myself included). Hydrate well or pay with cramps. Water only every two miles. Start is at the College Football Hall of Fame and the run is quiet and scenic along the St. Joseph River, but the hills come at the worst time. I was caught in a group of hills after mile 20 with no shade and no water. Besides the weather and water, the race is a definite to do if you enjoy college football.
 

A Runner from Tuscaloosa, Alabama (5/22/2000)
"Interesting course,couple of hills" (about: 1999)


COURSE: 4  ORGANIZATION: 3  FANS: 1


The course is scenic in places finishing in the Notre Dame stadium.It is mostly flat, although there are a couple of hills.It is possible to run a good time, but only if the weather is not too hot.In 1999 it was in the mid 60s at the start and very humid, rising into the upper 70s.
 

A Runner from Waco, Texas (3/28/2000)
"middle of the road marathon" (about: 1999)


COURSE: 4  ORGANIZATION: 3  FANS: 2


Great finish at ND stadium
Not enough water stops
hot weather, should have water every mile
Great course along the river
Not very many spetators, although some had sprinklers pointed in the street, which was refreshing.
I would run it again if I get a chance.
 

More Comments: [ < 1 .. 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 > ]


Become an Advertiser

Click Here: Please visit our Sponsor

Click Here: Please visit our Sponsor

Click Here: Please visit our Sponsor

Click Here: Please visit our Sponsor

Become an Advertiser