I am probably unusual for a marathon participant (but what is "usual" about ANY marathon participant?). Before running this race, I had completed a grand total of two marathons. I completed Hogeye in Fayetteville, AR in 1984 and 1985. I tried Hogeye in 2002, but was beaten by the rain and the cold. Having said that, I had run marathon distance 18 times this year just training for the marathon. But, even at that, I was ill-prepared for this one! The course was brutal! I did not like the fact that a lot of it was on a state highway with no shoulder. The hill near the half-way point was unforgiving! My left knee almost quit me at about the 21-mile marker; and it was sheer stubbornness that kept me going. I finished less than 10 minutes before the 7-hour cutoff. My greatest feeling of accomplishment was that the course did not beat me! But I have a healthy respect for the course. I don't plan on giving it a rematch.

Having said all of that, the organization was terrific! The people (volunteers and spectators) were very encouraging. I'll never forget the entertainment along the way (especially the Irish-style fiddlers at the campsite).

I am glad that I ran the race ONCE and completed it. But I think that I'll let one time do it.

Absolutely beautiful scenery. Well organized. Challenging. I met some awesome people (that would be you, B.F.).

Thank you for all of the memories, HOA.

This race will grow on you. There is so much character and variation in the route that it takes a couple of runnings to really appreciate everything that Heart of America has to offer. Miles 14-18 are some of the most beautiful miles you will ever run as you take in the rolling countryside on an early September morning. I've run the big ones (Chicago, Boston, Marine Corps), but there is just something special about the intimate feel of this marathon. Yes, it is hilly and I wouldn't want it any other way. If you are looking for something unique, challenging and a bit off of the beaten path, then I can't think of a better choice than Heart of America. Make it a Labor Day tradition!

I'm a novice, and the race was hard! That is why we run it. The organizers did an awesome job, and the town turned out for the event. The course was beautiful, with small farms covered in fog. Breathtaking.

I would like to thank the volunteers for doing a great job; we could not come out here and do this without you doing what you do. You men and women are the best. This is a very tough course, but you people make it bearable. Thanks again!

I have run many long races. By comparison, Joe and crew directed one of the best races I have ever experienced. Volunteers were very trained, supportive, and enthusiastic. Aid stations were as promised and plentiful. Even many countryside neighbors were bringing the whole family out and applauding us as we passed. It was a tough course, but the weather was cooler and overcast. The whiners should stay home if they don't like courses with personality. The $25 fee is unreal. I am going to send a follow-up donation. Come on, runners; reward them for excellence. I would recommend HOA to anyone who values support, director integrity, and an inspiring experience, not soon to be forgotten. Thanks to all of the volunteers who showed unparalleled dedication. Also, thanks to the several young girls who passed out iced sponges at mile 22. God bless all.

As a Mainer heading south in late summer, I suspected going in that this was not going to be a PR course for me but did underestimate the hills. For the entry fee of $25, we got personal service and Q&A at the start, a light to wear pre-dawn, adequate water stops (some with much appreciated ICE water), a t-shirt and a nice finisher's medal. Perhaps the best value to be had. To top off the kudos to the organization - I inadvertently ripped off 2 checks when sending in my entry and got the extra, blank check back via mail before I knew it was missing. My only "gripe" was the few-mile stretch towards the end where we ran with, rather than facing, traffic along the highway, which was a little disconcerting.

It was hot and it was especially humid thanks to Gustav, but I knew it would be going into the race....

Very well done!

I am a local and have always knew of the HOA. I always said that you are not a Boone County Runner unless you have done this race. I volunteered in 2007 and got inspired to run it. Well, I did it. It wasn't pretty, and it wasn't graceful, but I did it. If you are looking to be pampered at a race, please keep looking here. There were plenty of water stops. The few people you do see are very enthusiastic. The stock tub filled with ice water to soak your legs at the end was a bonus. Plus the massage tent is a must-visit. Expect to hurt. Expect to wonder, what am I doing here? Be ready to roll the dice on weather (2007 was great; 2008, hot and humid). Wait a few hours after the finish, and you will be ready to start training for next year.

HOA was only my second marathon. My older brother is a local and has run HOA several times. He gave me plenty of warning about the hills and the heat, so I trained in the heat and did lots of hill work. The weather was perfect and we both had PRs. I was well pleased with the organization for a small marathon. I'm running it again in '08. My only negative comment is that I wish the start and finish lines were closer together.

This was my 15th marathon and probably the hardest. If the hills don't get you, the heat may. It is not a PR course for sure. The countryside in rural Missouri is quite nice and as we approached the Missouri River, which we ran next to for a couple of miles. You could hear the dove hunters blasting away. The organization was good and the water breaks were good as well. I think it was probably the most laid back race from the standpoint that it was no frills, no expo, no lines, and a great price of $28.00!! If you want a challenge, this is it!!