This was my first marathon - I had high expectations because I'd always heard such positive things about Grandma's. Every expectation was met, and then some! Even though it was a little hot and my legs felt like rubber for the last 3 miles, the thousands of spectators kept me going. It wasn't even too crowded at the start. What a feeling at the end!! Great food and drinks provided to help recover. Everyone in the area comes to party and celebrate the runners! I would do it again in a heartbeat!

This was my first marathon. I live in Duluth and have always enjoyed the spectator part of the race. I was amazed at the crowd support. People would actually pick you out and yell your number and shout wonderful, encouraging comments. While running along Superior Street, I actually felt like a celebrity. It was so empowering to have that many people cheering and clapping. I have nothing negative to say except: lose the Ultima - yuck.

I agree with the numerous comments about the organization of this event. They do a great job of taking care of the runners there. A beautiful course, with great support at all fluid stops, and plenty of medical attention on course. This is a must do for all marathoners who want to be pampered. Running along the lake the entire time was awesome. What a great reminder of God's handiwork! I have only 2 things that could be considered negative: 1) Ultima is gross... warm Ultima, even grosser 2) the 2-night stay requirement at the hotels and dorms is not necessary. You have plenty of runner revenue coming into your beautiful city without diggng into our pockets for a two-night stay. These 2 items should not, however, keep anyone from heading up north to a great marathon!! After I get all 50 states, I'll be back!

This is an amazing point-to-point course, which runs along the Lake Superior shoreline. The level of organization is absolutely amazing. The race organizers have thought of everything. From race number pickup, to water stations, to the finish line, Grandma's Marathon makes sure you are well taken care of. Spectators line about 60% of the course, and are friendly, numerous, and very enthusiastic. If you have family and friends wishing to see you on the course, be aware that their best bet is at the end of the course in downtown Duluth.

I echo all the other comments. AMAZING organization, and the other three I've run were very good (NYC, Big Sur, Philly). The entire town turned out a great effort for the entire weekend. Course was pretty, but not as scenic as Big Sur (a very tough standard). Also was flat, although not as flat as Philly (a pancake). However, Grandma's was able to put it all together - wonderful support, pretty course, and BQ finish time. And I've never seen such great finish food - strawberries the size of your fist, ice cream, and all the standards. Well done - Duluth should be proud.

I've run Chicago, Boston, Twin Cities, Dallas, and a few others - none compare to Grandma's from an organizational or volunteer standpoint. More porta-potties than Boston or Chicago at the start, with significantly less runners. The water stations were 1st rate - both sides of the road with water first, sports drink second, and water again. Then ice and sponges. WOW. The finish area was also great, with many smiling volunteers, and many smiling finishers. Thanks to all the volunteers and other runners!

Duluth is definitely a small town with a big heart for marathoners! The entire town comes out for the Saturday night party under the tent, and if you enjoy a rest first, it can be great! The hotel rates change after the marathon, so I would recommend staying a few days after to enjoy the local scene. The course does seem longer that other marathons, due to the long streches of open area on route. Still, a lot of fun! I would recommend calling the local hotels in May, as that is when the cancellations come in. ($140 per night for a Best Western). Great time, but really a small town feel. Complete with the local paper printing press breaking down, delaying the Sunday paper until around 7 am! Talk about Mayberry RFD!!

Loved the whole thing. Wonderful organization. Breathtaking run along Lake Superior. Loved the spectators, who made a very tough and hot marathon a lot easier. Water and aid stations: you gave us 110 percent. What a rush the final few miles into Duluth. This was my 33rd marathon, and the toughest, but I loved every minute of it. To the race organizers and sponsors, and all the thousands of spectators and volunteers, thank you so very much. YOU GUYS ROCK.

This was my first marathon, and it was a great experience! The people of Duluth were the best - very friendly. I would recommend it to anyone. I was at the back of the pack, and there was plenty of support: water, sponges, snacks... it was great!

If there could be a race named 'America's Marathon', this would be it. Grandma's continues to astound - there were smiles on EVERYONE'S faces: the entrants, the limitless army of volunteers, and the entire town's residents. Because everyone is so friendly and ready to cheer you on, you forget about all the hard work and training you logged to get there. There are no pretenses about this race; you are treated to unabashed Midwest hospitality from the time you arrive 'til the time you get on the airplane to head home. Hotel staff, expo workers, pasta feed volunteers, cab drivers, shopkeepers, restaurateurs -everyone congratulates you on your trek to and through northern Minnesota. The army of volunteers was everywhere: at the expo, the pasta dinner, the pre-race staging area, the countless and fully-stocked water stops, the finish line, the post-race refreshment area, the bag pick-up, and the reunion area. Several times, many would ask 'Can I help you find', or 'do you need', etc. This town loves this race and very soon you want to love it back more. It's difficult to say 'thank you' enough times in return - and it's why runners make this a repeater and keeper. The course is picturesque, and it gently rolls downhill. There are wonderful and enthusiastic well-wishers all along the way. The activities in Canal Park take place all weekend. There are great restaurants, shops, bars, etc. to take in. Target handles the official merchandise, and this year's selection was plentiful (and as usual, priced right). Put this race on your calendar; you will not be disappointed. Other race directors can learn from Grandma's - they put their egos aside, and concentrate on hosting America's friendliest marathon, by putting the focus on the runners. Even in their 27th year, they continue to exceed expectations. THANK YOU GRANDMA'S, and THANK YOU DULUTH.