Akron Marathon

This race can be challenging. Scheduled for the end of September, it is likely to have higher temperatures and humidity. In 2019, we were lucky it was mostly overcast because the temps and humidity were pretty uncomfortable for a long run. Add to that the hills, and you have a recipe for cramps. I experienced them myself, and witnessed a lot of runners who appeared to be in good shape struggling to finish as well. That said, the race is well organized, with excellent support/volunteers. The cause is also superb ... benefiting the Children's Hospital, there are kid heroes at many of the support stations, and you run though the hospital campus just before the finish line. All in all, a really nice race ... which I imagine is pretty great when the weather cooperates!

This was great run. The course had some hills but given the terrain, I think they did well. Most of the hills were on the first half. Very scenic run through downtown and along the river. Route was not marked very well in a few areas along the river. I had thought I ran off course for a minute. Spectators were awesome, people along the entire course. Hydration stops were plentiful. Gu packs along the course were good as well. Expo was smaller than expected but still had everything you would see at a larger one Starting area was well organized. Volunteers were great. Shuttle to the start line was easy to follow. Post run party was great, could have gotten more food though. This ended in a baseball stadium. It was cool to be on the field.

I have run hundreds of running races and triathlons over the years. This was my favorite of all. Having never been to Akron, I didn't expect much. However, I was blown away. This was the most organized, high-energy, smooth-sailing race ever. Even though it's a smaller city, it has a big city vibe and the people go nuts for it. Everyone was extremely nice and welcoming, and the spectators were plentiful. The start had all the fanfare of Boston in the form of loud music, lights and crowds. The course was perfect- just enough hills to keep it from being boring. The blue line runs throughout the course, so it is impossible to miss a turn (not that you would with 9000 runners and about the same number of volunteers, haha!) The best part was seeing the hero zones- kids from the hospital decked out as superheroes and high-fiving the runners! For those of you looking to PR, this course certainly has potential. I missed my 1:31 PR for the half by one minute, even though I was six days earlier in the med tent at a half Ironman. Anyway, Akron is a beautiful city (tons of parks, water and green space) and this commitment-phobe already has it on the calendar for next year.Highly recommend! A++++ race!