Felt participation of spectators was poor. Needed to be more made aware of. You need more fun and hoopla before and after for the runners. Where are the post parties and fun?????? Chicago Ohio and Boston do great fun!!!!!!

I have run Detroit twice. Both times the weather was spectacular. This is one of the most well-organized marathons out there - water and sports drinks at every mile, aid stations and splits at every mile, photographers, oranges... you name it. At the finish you will find masseuse's and medics of course. The course is great! Scenic, fast and flat aside from the Ambassador bridge which came in the 2nd mile and was not that big a climb and the tunnel which is like running up a driveway. Great qualifier. I recommend it to everyone.

The Detroit Free Press International Marathon was my first in 16 years. The field of runners (about 2,200) is large enough to generate a decent runner's expo and plenty of aid stations, yet allows even a 9:00+ miler like me to cross the start line within 50 seconds of the gun.

This year's course was mostly fun, with an early international bridge crossing into Windsor, Ontario, (150 ft. gradual uphill followed by a 150 ft. gradual downhill). Then after about 5 miles in Windsor, you return to Detroit via a tunnel under the Detroit River.

After passing old Tiger stadium, winding through downtown Detroit, past the Tiger's new stadium, you end up mile 17 entering Belle Isle park. Seven long miles on beautiful, but seemingly endless Belle Isle leaves you with a 2 mile home stretch to a finish across the front of the stage of the Chene Park ampitheater.

Plenty of other friendly runners, but not too crowded to maneuver.

The October 15th, 2000 running of the marathon had an absolutely perfect day. Although there were few spectators to cheer a runner on, those who did make it out were enthusiastic. I enjoyed the course; the bridge, tunnel and park were all new for me. I am not sure when I will be able to run the race again, but I do think it is worth the trip.

Fine course. Usually excellent weather. Festive atmosphere. An ACCESSIBLE race. PR ready and loads of fun.

With two International crossings (bridge and tunnel) this race is unique
and scenic. The section on Belle Isle
has inspired tears at the beauty on a fall day. There are water stops each mile and plenty of support. I have run
Detroit twice and plan on a PR this fall
on this course.
Tom Cameron