I run this year's marathon (2010) and it was the best experience: the course is beautiful, the people cheering along the way are super friendly, and the organizers are extra knowledgable. A must-do if you are a first-timer; you will complete it, almost guaranteed.

I'm not very wordy, so I'll just say that I loved everything about this race (except the last 6 miles - ha!). The course was interesting and challenging, the support was A+, and it seemed as though the whole city was out to cheer.

This was my first marathon experience and I had a great time. The negatives are few: the course is hillier than described on the website; there were potholes near the park (these could be dangerous); the course was too narrow on the bridge as runners passed in both direction; and, the half-marathon medal is ugly.

The event was well organized and I look forward to participating next year.

Great marathon. Lots of gradual inclines with a couple significant elevation changes. The spectators couldn't have been any friendlier. The parts through residential areas are kind of boring. Expo was small. There were plenty of water stops, although some were placed at the bottom of the downhill, so if you wanted water, you'd lose all of your momentum.

This was my second year and I loved both. The spectators are what make the race! They shout your name even if they have no clue who you are!

The course is beautiful, the spectators are awesome, the music every mile is great, and the aid stations are perfectly spaced with just the right things. I could not be happier with the organization, race course, or any other aspect of the race. By far the best race I have ever seen.

I live near Richmond, and this was my first marathon. It was an amazing experience. Perfect weather and great spectator support along the entire course. The hills were not as bad as I thought they would be (the Lee Bridge up until you make the turn onto Main Street is long, but very gradual), and the last 1/2 mile is a very invigorating downhill.

Everything is good about this race, and there were no problems. Scenic enough course, no big hills, decent crowd support, consistently good aid stations, and so on. My fastest and slowest miles were only 30 seconds apart. You won't be bowled over by any one thing, but as you add it up, you appreciate that there's nothing at all to complain about, except maybe having to get downtown early to battle parking with the earlier 8K and half marathon races. You can even get a decent-priced hotel away from downtown for one night. It really is a friendly, well organized and well supported event.

I loved this race. The course is beautiful, with rolling hills but nothing crazy - just enough to keep it interesting. The people were amazing and the weather was perfect. I am running this marathon again next year! LOVED IT

It was the perfect mix of flat and hilly, urban and scenic, with more than enough hydration and nutrition along the course. The crowds were friendly and encouraging, and best of all, the downhill finish gave my tired legs an unimaginable rush! One of the best experiences of my life!