I ran the 2012 edition, which was the last one for Charlo after 20 years. It was a very nice flat race. But the winds were very strong in the second half. Beautifull scenary of the baie des chaleur.

Note these comments refer to the HALF - not full marathon - of this event. This was my first half-marathon in almost 2 years (ran shorter events due to injury, etc.) and I was not disappointed. The event was small, with 85-100 runners in all events, but well organized anyway. Course was out-and-back format for half (2 loops for full) along the main streets of town. Traffic was sparse and respectful of runners. Traffic control was provided at the turnaround point. Not many spectators (it was Sunday morning in a small town) but those who turned out were very supportive.

Highlights included a fantastic view of the bay (from all points of the course) and a fabulous selection of homemade cooking in the local community center post-race (hot/cold dishes, salads, breads and rolls, pies, cake... yum, yum!). No on-site showers but there was an agreement with a local campsite (~3KM away) to allow runners to shower and freshen up post-race. The town of Charlo is a bit out of the way (just off the highway between Dalhousie and Bathurst, NB) but well worth the trip for local hospitality, T-shirt, medal and great memories of a new PB - I'll be back in 2008!

Excellent and friendly organization, very scenic race course, few but very enthusiastic spectators, great pre-race pasta party and post-race dinner all cooked by the race organizers. All for only $40 Canadian....

I will return for sure!