(Run in 93) My 1st marathon, and I couldn't believe # of people throughout course cheering EVERYONE on. Whole area supports race. Organization / volunteers darn good. People are treated to (mostly) the best of Mpls-St. Paul. Unfortunately, race now fills 5 months beforehand, forcing a potential first-timer to commit early. Some friends have experienced host hotel (Hyatt) not allowing late check-out. Start can be slow and some pace or club 'packs' can discourteously string across the course. Note to supporters: finish area is crowded with limited nearby parking. Give yourself 15 minutes from anticipated finish time, or secure a camera-ready spot at finish line early (8-9 am).

This was a beautiful course. I ran a good race. It is runner friendly. It has a lot of spectators and the course organizers are to be commended. It was my first time up in the Twin Cities area. I ranked this very well. But I must say the end was a mess I wasn't prepared for. Have who ever is meeting you stand under a sign or make up a large one themselves. It took us over one half hour to find each other. And the parking was confusing. But knowing this would make all the difference next time.

This is one of my favorite marathons of all time! The course is beautiful and flat, except for the last 5 miles. The course finishes with rolling hills The crowd support was fabulous and people line the course the whole way! The post-race party was really nice and the bag pickup is really well organized. I liked starting at the Metrodome because of being protected from the weather and availability of bathrooms. I'd definately do this again.

I picked this as my first marathon ('97) based on recommendations from friends, and it lived up to its billing. A very well organized event, and it is indeed a beautiful urban course. The spectator support was fantastic. I enjoyed it so much that I'm signed up to do it again this year!

My comments may be a bit biased but they are true. I had run the race several years ago. The past few years I have been a spectator among the crowds. The course runs along a parkway system for about 18 miles. Here you run close to several city lakes and along Minnehaha creek which empties into the Mississippi River. From there you run along the river to about mile 20. to this point the course is flat. Miles 20-25 are on a 10% upgrade which feels like 40% at this time in the marathon. If you make it to mile 21, you WILL finish. The crowds line the street encouraging each runner to continue to the end. Race organization is the top of the line. The only thing that could have been improved is the start organization but this has probably been corrected since I ran. I plan on running again this year!