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Athens Marathon (Ohio) Runner Comments
Back to Athens Marathon (Ohio) Information & Reviews
Course 4.4 
Organization 4.3 
Spectators 3.1
Number of comments: 77 [displaying comments 41 to 51]
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S. Z. from Knoxville, TN
(4/9/2008)
 "Wonderful race for a PR" (about: 2008)
11-50 previous marathons
| 1 Athens Marathon (Ohio)
COURSE: 5 ORGANIZATION: 4 FANS: 2 This small race is just perfect for those looking for a PR. This was my 13th marathon and I bested my previous PR by 6 minutes. As others have said, most of the course is a flat paved bike trail running along fields, woods and some water overflow areas. There are areas with no shade, and even the stretches with trees were mainly sunny as the leaves hadn't yet appeared, but the early spring time of the race made for great running temperatures. Being a small event (213 and 460 marathon and half-marathon finishers respectively), it is low-key, and spectator support is minimal, especially along the limited access bike trail. There were plenty of aid stations, however, and the post-race food was good. The only administrative snafu I found was that there was no Gatorade at the marathon turnaround aid station, and I later heard that that station eventually ran out of cups. There also was some minor problem at the beginning, aligning the cannon shot starting the race with the actual start. But those minor issues really didn't detract much from a well managed event. I also must add that Athens is not far from Hocking Hills State Park, which is one of the most scenic areas we have ever seen. Definitely try to at least day trip there if you go to this marathon. In sum, a fast, pretty course, well managed, run at a great time of year and in a scenic area. The Athens Marathon is a winner. | |
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B. F. from Brentwood, TN
(4/8/2008)
 "Perfect all the way around" (about: 2008)
6-10 previous marathons
COURSE: 5 ORGANIZATION: 5 FANS: 4 Couldn't have ordered a more perfect day, group of volunteers or setting for a marathon. I selected this race hoping it would give me the best opportunity to achieve the goal of running my best race along with a PR and BQ time. I wasn't disappointed. The great weather only added to what was a very well organized and supported marathon. From the uncomplicated registration/packet pick-up, to the school kids doing a great job serving at the pre-race meal the night before, to the thrill of running onto the college track, seeing your time on the clock knowing you're within reach of a long-sought-after goal, it was a great experience from start to finish. | |
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John Burchfield from Asheville, NC
(4/8/2008)
"Very, very enjoyable" (about: 2008)
11-50 previous marathons
| 1 Athens Marathon (Ohio)
COURSE: 4 ORGANIZATION: 5 FANS: 4 This was my 16th overall marathon, and one of my best - yes, even with a time of 4:33.48. It was what I shall call a "NO FRILLS, just get it done" run. No crowds, no problems getting around, and easy access to the course for observers, and family. Whether through trial and error or just great planning and organization, those who are responsible for pulling this race off each year has done their homework. It may be too, now that I'm 51 years-old, that I might just appreciate the effort a little more, and I'm a little happier that I am still able to finish. I can easily recommend this marathon. My thanks to all of those working the aid/water stations and race organizers. Great job!! | |
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J. H. from Strongsville, OH
(4/8/2008)
"The day didn't go as expected..." (about: 2008)
11-50 previous marathons
| 1 Athens Marathon (Ohio)
COURSE: 5 ORGANIZATION: 5 FANS: 3 I have a different slant on this marathon (which overall is well-run, on a pretty course, and very reasonably priced; I am sure others here will speak to those aspects of the race). I didn't feel right as I was running, and by mile 10 had become very light-headed and exhausted (probably because of a recent bout with flu and a sinus infection). I have run many marathons and many more long training runs; it was obvious that something wasn't right. At the next aid station, I pulled off the course and sat down. Immediately I had several volunteers around me, offering me water, Gatorade, and bananas. After lying on the ground for a few minutes, I still wasn't feeling much better. Two of the volunteers offered to drive me back to the start (significant, as this course is an out-and-back). Fortunately, I started feeling better, and perked up after getting back to the hotel for a shower and nap. I want to thank the race organizers and especially the volunteers for being able to respond so well to my situation. Their dedication really makes this race work. And I hope to thank them in person after I cross the finish line next year! | |
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Bob Kroeger from Home of the Reds
(4/7/2008)
"Athens - A Five-Star Gem in its 41st Year!" (about: 2008)
11-50 previous marathons
| 1 Athens Marathon (Ohio)
COURSE: 5 ORGANIZATION: 5 FANS: 4 This marathon is one of the best values in running in America. For $35, you get a long-sleeved cotton shirt with "Athens Marathon" down the sleeve - a mirror of the 2007 Boston Marathon shirt (only difference is that Boston's entry was $95). Mile markers were easy to see and aid stations were well manned. Course was flat on a bike path along the scenic Hocking River, and its trees helped to block out the sun. Nice age bracket prizes, handed out as you finished! Post-race food: pizza, hamburgers, hot dogs, bananas, and Gatorade, all generously provided by the Ohio National Guard. Boston's post race food: a bag of chips and a banana. But the highlight was the pasta dinner ($5): a grand helping of spaghetti, salad, and dessert, served by polite 6th graders dressed in white and black. One young man wore a bow tie! It doesn't get any better than this. | |
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H. H. from Decatur, Indiana
(4/7/2008)
"Great course and volunteers." (about: 2008)
1 previous marathon
| 1 Athens Marathon (Ohio)
COURSE: 5 ORGANIZATION: 4 FANS: 5 This was my first marathon and I liked the fact that it was low-key. Not too many racers. I appreciated the fact the the course was flat. The weather was perfect - 60's and sunny. | |
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Robert Cope from Livonia, New York
(4/7/2008)
"Excellent Small-Town Race" (about: 2008)
2 previous marathons
| 1 Athens Marathon (Ohio)
COURSE: 5 ORGANIZATION: 5 FANS: 4 This is an excellent race! I enjoyed the small-town feel of this race. The staff is excellent and cheerful and attends to your every need. The race is almost entirely flat, so it makes for a good first-time marathon. The field isn't very big, so you don't have issues with getting started like you would at the larger races. You do not get a lot of fans at this race, but I don't train in front of fans, so I had no problem with it. Go out of your way for this race, as it is worth it. | |
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S. S. from Louisville, KY
(4/7/2008)
 "Nice, peaceful and well-organized" (about: 2008)
2 previous marathons
| 1 Athens Marathon (Ohio)
COURSE: 5 ORGANIZATION: 4 FANS: 3 I ran the full marathon yesterday and found it to be a very enjoyable experience. Course was nearly flat and fast; water stops were well placed and had great staffing. Packet pickup was a breeze. A couple of possible improvements: The 9 a.m. start is too late, weather was warm yesterday and most marathoners were in direct sunlight for at least the second half after noon. Also, running around the track at the finish 1-1/2 times was crazy, especially since you had to run by the clock the first time and know you had to go around again. Move the start up a 1/4 mile and fix the problem. Overall a great race for anyone that likes a smaller marathon. | |
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M. A. from Cleveland, OH
(4/7/2008)
 "Inexpensive, low-key, great fun" (about: 2008)
11-50 previous marathons
| 1 Athens Marathon (Ohio)
COURSE: 5 ORGANIZATION: 5 FANS: 5 Perfect weather for 2008. I was able to park right at the start. Flat and fast course - I ran a PR. Great support from the many aid stations and volunteers. | |
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Jon Kroeger from Cincinnati, Ohio
(4/8/2007)
"An enjoyable, no-frills, low-key marathon" (about: 2007)
6-10 previous marathons
| 1 Athens Marathon (Ohio)
COURSE: 4 ORGANIZATION: 4 FANS: 2 I thoroughly enjoyed this marathon. I got just what I expected out of it. It was a low-key marathon - just what I was looking for. It was a flat and fast course, perfectly set up for many people to achieve a PR. Unfortunately, the harsh rains from miles 19-21 slowed me down and prevented me from doing so. Athens was a pretty college town worth checking out if you have time. I most definitely recommend this marathon if you don't mind running up and down a bike trail and not having much fan support. The orange and banana slices every couple miles was something different for me from previous marathons and they were much appreciated and helpful. |
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