I like the fact that there were people cheering me on who I didn't even know.

I ran the the first running of this marathon in 2000. That day was abnormally windy for the area (in 2001 it was perfect) but what a nice course. The route from Montague to Muskegon along Scenic Drive is just about as perfect as a distance runner can ask for. This is a newer marathon and they are still getting their act together somewhat. It has some great potential to be an annual early Fall favorite. Sorry to see it had to be cancelled in 2002 (due to low sign-ups) but maybe next year.

I ran this marathon in 2001 and LOVED it! The weather was a little cooler than I would have liked, but the course was beautiful and the organization was great. Buses took you to the starting line so you were able to talk to fellow racers on the way out to the start. (like Boston) The course was awesome with some challenging hills and breath-taking scenery. Aid on the course was good with water and gatorade every few miles. Massages at the finish line were excellent with very short lines. Crowds were not there, but friends and family can easily drive the course and see you every few miles. If you like smaller races and quiet, beautiful scenery, run this race. It is way better than Detroit in terms of scenery.

I have run 22 marathons including Boston, Chicago, Twin Cities, Montreal and Columbus . This was by far the most scenic. It winds through 3 state parks and crosses 2 rivers as you follow the Lake Michigan shore south from Whitehall to Muskegon. The race is chipped and there's plenty of water and
gatorade. The course is moderately hilly during the first six miles but the hills are short and diminutive compared to the Flying Pig or the 21st mile of Twin Cities. Note, both Whitehall and Muskegon are relatively small towns and provide great lodging bargins. Hope to see you there this year. It's going to be my last long run before Columbus.

I ran the 2000 marathon. The course was rolling hills. The day was unseasonably warm and very windy. There were strong head winds. Few but encouraging spectators. Not many full marathoners but there is a marathon relay.