The NCR is a fantastic marathon. It is totally flat and the trail is easy on your feet and joints. The wind this year could have been brutal, but it was mainly a crosswind (although it did seem to come at you head-on a few times). If you're a local who trains on the trail, then you're lucky because it seems like a home-field advantage. Although there aren't a ton of spectators (what do you expect for a run through the woods in late November?), the ones who did come out were terrific. Joggers yelled encouragement as did bikers, who were very courteous about announcing their presence and giving plenty of room when passing.

The water/Gatorade stops were perfectly spaced for me, but that's a personal preference - some people might have wanted more of them. I have run it twice and set PRs both times, so my opinion is admittedly biased, but I think most of the negative comments in other reviews are a result of runners who had the wrong expectations. The website was pretty clear about the trail surface, the other trail users and the shuttle buses.

All in all, it is a great race, and running in the same direction as the water flows for the last 12 miles is a great mental cue that while it seems flat, you really are running downhill on the way back.

As a first-timer at your event, coming from New Brunswick, Canada, I just want to say that the fabulous volunteers and their smiles and cheering at every water stop and road crossing were very helpful. The course was very flat which helped me to meet my goal of qualifying for Boston!! Yeah!

I was not a fan of the windy conditions but you can't help that!

Thank you for a great race.

2003 was my first time at this race. Friends had convinced me that it was a race I would definitely love. Well, although I had my fastest time in 8 years, there are aspects of this race that are sub-optimal.

First, the surface was thick with gravels, and small rocks. It was not the smooth dirt surface I was expecting. Second, there were lots of non-runners, especially bicyclists on the course, constantly yelling at you to get out of their way. On this day, the wind was a major factor, blowing in your face both out and back, which I had thought was impossible. There were plenty of aid stations. I wasn't crazy about having to be shuttled to the start and back to the parking lot. This is the type of course that the 'hardcore' runners should enjoy, but it is not 'easy' by any means.

This is the marathon for those of us experienced runners looking to keep our P.R. times. Fast, fast course, great weather, with wonderful people. The pre-race talk is qualifying for Boston. The best marathon for experienced runners who don't need crowds or spectators, but just want to run with great people.

I like the fairly flat and fast course. And my legs like not running on asphalt or concrete. The weather is usually perfect (except for the 22-degree start in 2001). The small number of runners allows me plenty of room to run my own race. 2003 will be the fourth time I have run this race.

The course is a good course unless you get a lot of rain, then it is very slippery and muddy in sections. Been there, done that! All of the volunteers are great people and very helpful and make your experience a good one.

Now when it comes to responses to emails sent to this organization, you might as well forget it. No one responds to emails sent them. It is like you don't matter to them. Otherwise they will take your money for the marathon, but forget them holding up on their end concerning awards. Been there, done that! However, I will run it anyway, just to be with others whom like to run marathons. Definitely not because of those whom neglect their responsibily!!!

I will close on a more positive note by saying this is an easy course for the first-timers who don't mind running alone. Some need the crowds and others don't. If you need the crowds, this is not the marathon for you.

I agree with 98% of the comments above, but would like to see more fluid available on the course... I tend to leak profusely. Great time of year, as the weather is usually perfect for us over-heaters! Plus, I dig the low-key atmosphere... I'm comin' back!!!

This was my favorite marathon ever! the organizers, other runners, and volunteers were all wonderful. I was a bit nervous about getting left behind in the small field of runners, but it was great - very laid back, and I didn't feel the pressure or claustrophobia of a big race. the crowd support is thin, but those who were out gave it their all...I felt like I got 5-star personal attention at every water stop. put it on your 'to-do' list.

This was my first 'rural' marathon. The flat course, cool temperatures, volunteers and organization were great. The scenery was beautiful but a bit monotonous. The relatively small crowd (which I like) helps you concentrate on running as well as facilitates unofficial roadside potty breaks. My time was 16 minutes faster than my run at the MCM 4 weeks before. This race will provide you a PR.

This is a great race, easy on the legs and very fast. It was my 10th marathon and a PR. If you can handle the solitude and enjoy running alone at times, it can be very pleasant. I was able to concentrate easily in the later stages of the race because of the peaceful, wooded surroundings. Great volunteers and my family was able to see me 4 times along the course.Another plus was the thanksgiving holiday that added a few more rest days before the race.