calendar icon Apr 30, 2024

Virginia Creeper Marathon Runner Comments

Back to Virginia Creeper Marathon Information & Reviews

Course Rating Course 4.9 
 
Oranization Rating Organization 4.9 
 
Spectator Rating Spectators 4.0 
 
 
Number of comments: 93 [displaying comments 41 to 51]
More Comments: [ < 1 3 4 5 6 7 9 > ]

 

G. M. from Abingdon, VA (5/2/2009)
"Great low-key marathon!" (about: 2009)

2 previous marathons | 1 Virginia Creeper Marathon
COURSE: 5  ORGANIZATION: 5  FANS: 4


I live 3 miles from the trail, so I run on the Creeper Trail several days a week. It was a no-brainer to run my second marathon here. I was surprised how fast it filled up and was on the waiting list for 2 months before I got in. The race has a down home, relaxed feel - if that's possible for a marathon. The race director (Frank) really is as great as everyone says, and the race organization gets 5 stars PLUS. The paper weight is nice, as is the postcard you get in the mail a few weeks after the race with your official time on it. Surprisingly, only 5% or so of the runners are locals; they are really missing the boat on this one....
 

N. C. from Blacksburg, VA (4/23/2009)
"Definitely as advertised" (about: 2009)

3 previous marathons | 1 Virginia Creeper Marathon
COURSE: 5  ORGANIZATION: 5  FANS: 4


Great alternative to the "big city" version of marathons. Beautiful scenery and a forgiving course (only gentle grades on this rail-to-trail). Race director is well-organized and everyone is very friendly. Yes, it is a low-frills event, but I didn't miss anything. All I wanted was a PR... which I got by over 10 minutes. Register early - this one fills fast.
 

Jennifer Fields from Massachusetts, USA (4/1/2009)
"Fabulous!" (about: 2009)

4-5 previous marathons | 1 Virginia Creeper Marathon
COURSE: 5  ORGANIZATION: 5  FANS: 5


When I decided in late 2007 to run this race in 2009, it was based on the great reviews here. I was not disappointed. I had my best marathon experience here and other races will certainly pale in comparison. Frank is the epitome of what every race director should be. The volunteers were wonderful, the post-race snacks were great! And the trail... well, I am sad that this beautiful trail is a 15-hour drive from my home. What a gem! I will certainly be back to run this race again. Thank you to all for your hospitality. Southwest Virginia is truly beautiful.
 

Kay Ziemer from Mt. Holly NC (3/30/2009)
"Awesome Race; Beautiful Scenery" (about: 2009)

1 previous marathon | 1 Virginia Creeper Marathon
COURSE: 5  ORGANIZATION: 5  FANS: 4


This was my first marathon and I'm so glad I picked the Creeper. The trail was in great shape, despite days of rain prior to race day. Super nice volunteers, well marked course, and some of the prettiest countryside you will see. Frank, the director, was a fun guy who had everything totally organized. Thanks so much for making my first marathon experience so great. I highly recommend this race!!
 

P. B. from Hendersonville, NC, USA (5/22/2008)
"The most excellent marathon known to man!" (about: 2008)

4-5 previous marathons | 1 Virginia Creeper Marathon
COURSE: 5  ORGANIZATION: 5  FANS: 5


The course is so scenic that you'll finish and want to run another loop. After a lot of pre-race rain and light drizzle during, the course was in great shape. The volunteers were the champions-of-the-day, braving the wet cold conditions. Their support helped warm the soul on the beautiful 37-degree morning. The race director, Frank, makes everyone feel welcome with his Southern hospitality and humor.

- Paul Brown, Hendersonville, NC.
 

M. F. from Southeastern Pennsylvania (4/20/2008)
"Almost too good to be true;believe the comments" (about: 2008)

11-50 previous marathons | 1 Virginia Creeper Marathon
COURSE: 5  ORGANIZATION: 5  FANS: 2


If you love to run on well groomed trails, don't mind running by yourself, and can mentally withstand passing the finish line 4 times before you actually finish, then this is the race for you. The low-key approach is matched with efficiency, friendliness, and incomparable organization. Keep this in mind if you are a first-timer or looking to qualify for Boston. "Run Frank Run" is extremely responsive!
 

Jim Price from Morristown, Tn (4/12/2008)
"The best choice for a first marathon." (about: 2008)

First Marathon
COURSE: 5  ORGANIZATION: 5  FANS: 5


In searching for a race for my first marathon, I used this guide to do my research. I thought that if half of the positive comments were true, the Creeper Trail Marathon would be the best choice for a "newbie."

It turns out that all of the positive comments were true! The "low-key" nature of the event really helped keep the nerves under control, which says a lot for a first-timer. The surface of the course is very forgiving on the legs. The slope of the trail is very subtle and is hardly noticeable. The race staff was beyond belief... especially the race director. Family support is highly encouraged at this event. My wife was right on the course, handing me drink bottles, energy bars, and giving me encouragement.

For me, the out-and-back nature of the course made finishing the miles much easier. I only focused on one course leg at a time, and that really helped keep me from getting overwhelmed by the length of the race as a whole. I was able to run every step without stopping! It also makes it much easier for your family to enjoy the race with you since you will pass though the main start finish area 4 times... check out the course map.

Above everything else, the beauty of the course is truly amazing. The landscape made the race more of an adventure than just a race. The trestles, the river, the trees, the trail itself - they all make you want to keep going to see what is around the next bend.

I'm afraid I may have been spoiled by this race....
 

D. S. from TN (4/4/2008)
"Beautiful Course" (about: 2008)

4-5 previous marathons | 1 Virginia Creeper Marathon
COURSE: 5  ORGANIZATION: 5  FANS: 5


This is a race I highly recommend. Because of the small number of participants there were times I was all alone and could take in the beauty of the course. The race director and volunteers were great. Even though the weather was a little on the wet side, it didn't dampen their spirits. Aid stations were well stocked with water, Gatorade and goodies. The fig bars and grapes at around mile 21 were great, as I was starting to get hungry. The entire course seemed pretty flat to me and I liked the soft running surface as well. I also liked the idea of passing by family members at the start/finish line several times. I plan on returning to do this one again.
 

scott foxx from USA (4/3/2008)
"For those who want to get away from the streets." (about: 2008)

11-50 previous marathons | 2 Virginia Creeper Marathons
COURSE: 4  ORGANIZATION: 5  FANS: 3


An enjoyable outdoor marathon with minimal road under your feet. The trees, creeks, cows and birds made for good friends. The drizzle could have stayed away, but that is what makes a memory. Low-key, low price, big thanks (to race director).
 

Kimberly Wilson from Charlotte, NC (4/3/2008)
"Great event, beautiful trail, awesome volunteers!" (about: 2008)

1 previous marathon | 1 Virginia Creeper Marathon
COURSE: 5  ORGANIZATION: 5  FANS: 4


Because this was my 1st marathon, I don't have a comparison, but I can't imagine an event being any better. This was also my brother's 1st and we were inspired by our dad to run a marathon. It was a great experience to be able to do this with my brother (and my husband) and something I will never forget. Thanks to all of the volunteers, and "great job" to Frank!
 

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