This was my first marathon and I loved it. The course was hilly and a bit windy in places, but the scenery was wonderful. I liked having laps because I'm a slower runner and it kept me in touch with the rest of the field. Everyone was so friendly and supportive. Having to catch the ferry to the island the night before added to the camaraderie. The 'dollar girls' were a highlight too with their many oufit changes. They gave us a dollar coin on our last lap to place at the feet of the bagpiper on the hill (as legend has it, failing to do this could result in a DNF!).