Marathon Details - Wenatchee Marathon

North America Marathons > USA > WA > Wenatchee > Wenatchee Marathon

Wenatchee Marathon & Half Marathon, 10K, 5K

Wenatchee, WA USA

April 20, 2024

http://www.teddriven.com/wenatchee-marathon

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Results:	2023 \| 2022 \| 2019 \| 2018 \| 2017 \| 2016 \| 2015 \| 2014 \| 2013 \| 2012 \| 2011 \| 2010 \| 2009 \| 2008 \| 2007 \| 2006 \| 2005 Top 3 Finishers by Year

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Name:	Lynda Finegold
Address:
Phone Number:	(509) 662-2066
Email:	Email the organizers



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Reviews

Course 4.3

Organization 3.7

Spectators 2.8

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Number of comments: 24 [displaying comments 1 to 11]

More Comments: [ < 1 2 3 > ]

C. L. from Minnesota (4/26/2023) "A must do marathon" (about: 2023) 50+ previous marathons \| 1 Wenatchee Marathon COURSE: 5 ORGANIZATION: 4 FANS: 3 Well done for a small race. The scenery was beautiful! LOVED the finish over the bridge! The course did not get boring even though it was 2 loops (other runners & races going on at the same time were beneficial to runners supporting each other as spectators were minimal). The only improvement I would suggest is the award for age group winners (as we received the same glass everyone else got just to participate).
E. O. from Minneapolis, Minnesota (4/27/2018) "Scenic race, but small" (about: 2018) 11-50 previous marathons \| 1 Wenatchee Marathon COURSE: 4 ORGANIZATION: 4 FANS: 2 This was a good race, but a rather small participation. The two loops around the Columbia River were large enough that I didn't feel like I was running in the same place the whole time. Support was adequate and despite not having any crowds it felt like those involved were very supportive. There were a lot of rolling hills; the race isn't flat, but none of the hills were very long. If you like smaller races, this is a good one to consider.
T. W. from CO (4/27/2015) "Wenachee not what is expected" (about: 2015) 3 previous marathons \| 1 Wenatchee Marathon COURSE: 3 ORGANIZATION: 1 FANS: 1 Race course is NOT flat. Race aide stations were not 2 miles apart and I was told by a race director they were 3 miles apart but there was one area with rolling hills, no shade and no water to be found and it was longer than 3 maybe 4 or more miles luckily I had a fuel belt and refilled my bottles which takes time off your pace. Volunteer at expo giving out bibs was very unwelcoming and rude. Then the pace groups were no longer going to be there. But I made an awesome friend we ran strong and supported one another and all ended well. A few nice volunteers but over all I would not recommend due to dishonestly about the course and lack of support. It's also a 3hr drive from Seattle not 2 like I was told. WA has so many other marathons to choose from, go with something else.
J. A. from Vancouver, BC (4/20/2015) "Great course, poor medical support" (about: 2015) 4-5 previous marathons \| 1 Wenatchee Marathon COURSE: 5 ORGANIZATION: 2 FANS: 3 I chose this race for my spring marathon this year, as the reviews were great and the course looked beautiful. It really was - great views of the mountains and river throughout! Unfortunately, for me, this year had unexpected high temperatures and heat which really affected my race. I was sunburnt and heat-stroked even before the halfway mark. As the pathway is asphalt around the river, the high temperatures felt even hotter, the sun kept getting higher, the air felt stale, I did not feel a breeze and there was no shade. Of course, the weather and temperature is not the responsibility of the race organizers. It would have been great if a few extra aid stations could have been added when high temperatures were predicted, however, I also understand the limitations of a small race. I did see a number of medical aid attendants on bikes throughout the course. And the aid stations that were on the course were well-stocked and supported by local teams of enthusiastic children - very adorable and always made me smile, even with my sunstroke. My disappointment lies with the treatment (or lack thereof) I received once I finished my race. I stumbled straight to the First Aid tent. The man and woman at the tent barely acknowledged me when I asked if I could sit down. The man disappeared and the woman gave me a couple bags of ice, then turned her back and continued to rummage around with whatever else she was doing. My friends and family were with me, and tried to engage her with, explaining that I was a Type 1 Diabetic. At no point did she engage with me directly to make me answer any questions or follow up with my family's concerns regarding my diabetes. A few minutes later, she disappeared all together. I continued to lay there for 45 minutes under ice bags, before I felt well enough to sit up. The First Aid attendant never came back. I understand that small races rely on the support of volunteers, and can appreciate a smaller scale event has less resources. My recommendation would be to ensure that the First Aid tent at the finish is as adequate and helpful as the attendants out and about on bikes.
C. F. from Spokane, Washington (4/22/2014) "Family Friendly and Beautiful Course" (about: 2014) 1 previous marathon \| 1 Wenatchee Marathon COURSE: 5 ORGANIZATION: 5 FANS: 3 I chose this marathon because it is held on Saturday. So few Saturday marathons these days! The weather was perfect started out in the mid 40s and finished in the high 50s. You could feel a bit of a breeze when you crossed the Columbia River and headed north on the far side of the course, but the wind was a non-factor. The trail is paved and in perfect condition flat, no camber, no raised roots. Others have described how scenic the loop is and how it helps having seen the course second time around, but is worth noting there is no significant change in elevation. The 10K, half, and full were well organized to minimize congestion and I think everyone got the 10th annual tech hoodie which was an appreciated bonus since I signed up less than three weeks before the race. Free public parking is available 100 yards from the start/finish which was incredibly convenient. The volunteers were extremely nice and aid stations were about every two miles which seemed perfect. Again, very well organized. I had read some complaints from previous years, but those seemed to have been addressed.
G. S. from Spokane, WA (4/25/2013) "Super course, wonderful weather, gotta do it!!!" (about: 2013) 2 previous marathons \| 1 Wenatchee Marathon COURSE: 5 ORGANIZATION: 5 FANS: 5 A Marathon is an epic in any runner's career. Many events don't seem to realize this, but Wenatchee has it in spades. This gorgeous trail is a 10 mile loop crossing two bridges on the Columbia River, so you do it twice and believe me it's worth getting two looks, it's also nice because you can gauge where you need to focus for the last time around the course. The scenery is breathtaking, one side is manicured with statues and the other side is left undisturbed and natural, the best of both worlds. The weather was nice and cool for the start and then a nice breeze came along later. The volunteers were superb and even had Nutri-grain bars to supplement GU-gel. It wasn't a big event and it wasn't too small, but to me it was EPIC!
m. c. from tonasket wa (4/21/2013) "no shirt" (about: 2012) 6-10 previous marathons \| 1 Wenatchee Marathon COURSE: 4 ORGANIZATION: 1 FANS: 2 Race went great. Love the river trail. Signed up early to get my shirt. Finished the race and they didn't have one in my size. They said they would send me one. After several emails they said they could not get one. Gave me wine glasses instead. Said I could have free entry in next marathon. Several emails more I got the wine glasses. Nothing about free entry in next marathon after a year later. Just beware run fast or you might not get a shirt no matter how early you put your entry form in.
M. S. from Brier, WA (4/23/2012) "Beautiful Course, no crowds." (about: 2012) 11-50 previous marathons \| 1 Wenatchee Marathon COURSE: 4 ORGANIZATION: 3 FANS: 2 This was my first Wenatchee marathon & it won't be the last. This was a beautiful run, with snow capped peaks, blue skies & the ever present Lake Wenatchee. I did have problems finding parking close to the start line & ended up quite a few blocks away. IMO there should have been better directions for event parking, but it's not a huge issue & I'm sure that a little exploration & preparation would turn up some more suitable parking spots. The race Starting Area is small & the small pack of runners mixed between 10K & Full Marathon, which seemed an odd combination but was no big deal. This is a Chip Timed event so you get an accurate finish time & while the chip is large it is really no more substantial than a piece of plasticised paper. This is very light & comfortable to wear, much more comfortable than some races where it's a strap around your ankle & there's a risk of chafing & even blisters. The Aid Stations were a bit spotty, I got the feeling they were a little too far apart & there was one section where they definitely were too far apart. However the sport drink was the reasonably palatable Powerade Ice, not my favourite Lemon-Lime but thankfully NOT 'Cherry' which has to be the most disgusting, gut churning flavour I've ever tasted & should be avoided at all costs. One up for Wenatchee to think of that. Occasionally Gu or Gel packs were handed out too. There's no supporters or crowds & some route junctions were not manned with people to tell you where to go. Luckily brightly coloured, adhesive markers were placed along the route & it was fairly easy to follow. What wasn't followed by some, especially walkers, was etiquette. In several places the trail narrows & early on, on one bridge in particular you had runners coming back towards you. Several times I had walkers who were making it impossible for others to get through as they took up as much space as possible, this was even despite calling out 'Left!' or 'Right!' several times. Marshalls really need to educate slower participants about making sure they don't block the trail for those trying to pass. The course loops around at the 4 mile point & you have to be aware of this for the Full Marathon or otherwise you're taking part in the 10K! Then you do 2 circuits of the lake, something that can play with some people's minds. There's no steep or long hills, the worst climb is where the trail climbs up to the bridge on the east of the lake. Apart from that it is gently rolling, nothing too steep or too long to run up & easy enough on your legs to be able to coast down the other side. It's not a fantastically fast course though as you're pretty much always going up or down. The Finish Line is surprisingly low key & something of a surprise as you have to turn off the trail at the last minute & cross a bridge. The result is you don't see it until the last 100 yards. WHAM! It's suddenly all over. You get a good looking medal & a great T shirt (are you LISTENING Capitol City Marathon????) then there's plenty of snacks & drinks to feast on. This wasn't my quickest run as an injury flared up again & I did struggle with the heat that built up later in the day, a situation exacerbated by spotty water stops. However others may find this course suits them more. Either way it was a delight to participate in this race & it's on my calendar for next year.
A. F. from Washington State (4/18/2011) "I cannot say enough good things..." (about: 2011) 4-5 previous marathons \| 1 Wenatchee Marathon COURSE: 5 ORGANIZATION: 5 FANS: 2 This was a very scenic, virtually traffic-free race. The course is along the water the entire time. The weather was beautiful and the snow-capped mountains were stunning. Medical support was present, along with hydration and GU at mile 6.5. Lots of "real" restrooms - this was a nice change from porta-potties. The communication about the run and events were great. The finish was climactic and rewarding. The zip-up hoody was a very nice treat instead of another T or tech shirt. I will be back for this run. Nice work to the organizers of this race!!!
S. T. from Seattle, WA (4/18/2011) "Fantastic Marathon in every way!" (about: 2011) 11-50 previous marathons COURSE: 5 ORGANIZATION: 5 FANS: 3 This was my first Wenatchee Marathon and I will definitely go back! I really have absolutely nothing negative to say about this race. The course was amazing beautiful - the lake, the snow capped mountains, the trees - breathtaking. Good mix of rolling hills and flats. Aid stations were well stocked with both water and powerade. Gu gels given out twice! Awesome finish line where you cross the bridge and can see the time pulling you home. I loved that! Spectators were minimal, but the ones that were out were great. Don't do this marathon if you need to be 'entertained' the whole way. Packet pick-up and race day logistics were a breeze! Easy parking for everything and easy in & out on race day. We sat in our car until 15 minutes prior to the race start and then went INSIDE to use REAL bathrooms before meandering to the start line. Seriously doesn't get any better than that! Was a perfect weather day for running - blue skies & temps at 46 - 65 degrees throughout. Do this marathon!

More Comments: [ < 1 2 3 > ]

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C. L. from Minnesota (4/26/2023) "A must do marathon" (about: 2023) 50+ previous marathons \| 1 Wenatchee Marathon COURSE: 5 ORGANIZATION: 4 FANS: 3 Well done for a small race. The scenery was beautiful! LOVED the finish over the bridge! The course did not get boring even though it was 2 loops (other runners & races going on at the same time were beneficial to runners supporting each other as spectators were minimal). The only improvement I would suggest is the award for age group winners (as we received the same glass everyone else got just to participate).
E. O. from Minneapolis, Minnesota (4/27/2018) "Scenic race, but small" (about: 2018) 11-50 previous marathons \| 1 Wenatchee Marathon COURSE: 4 ORGANIZATION: 4 FANS: 2 This was a good race, but a rather small participation. The two loops around the Columbia River were large enough that I didn't feel like I was running in the same place the whole time. Support was adequate and despite not having any crowds it felt like those involved were very supportive. There were a lot of rolling hills; the race isn't flat, but none of the hills were very long. If you like smaller races, this is a good one to consider.
T. W. from CO (4/27/2015) "Wenachee not what is expected" (about: 2015) 3 previous marathons \| 1 Wenatchee Marathon COURSE: 3 ORGANIZATION: 1 FANS: 1 Race course is NOT flat. Race aide stations were not 2 miles apart and I was told by a race director they were 3 miles apart but there was one area with rolling hills, no shade and no water to be found and it was longer than 3 maybe 4 or more miles luckily I had a fuel belt and refilled my bottles which takes time off your pace. Volunteer at expo giving out bibs was very unwelcoming and rude. Then the pace groups were no longer going to be there. But I made an awesome friend we ran strong and supported one another and all ended well. A few nice volunteers but over all I would not recommend due to dishonestly about the course and lack of support. It's also a 3hr drive from Seattle not 2 like I was told. WA has so many other marathons to choose from, go with something else.
J. A. from Vancouver, BC (4/20/2015) "Great course, poor medical support" (about: 2015) 4-5 previous marathons \| 1 Wenatchee Marathon COURSE: 5 ORGANIZATION: 2 FANS: 3 I chose this race for my spring marathon this year, as the reviews were great and the course looked beautiful. It really was - great views of the mountains and river throughout! Unfortunately, for me, this year had unexpected high temperatures and heat which really affected my race. I was sunburnt and heat-stroked even before the halfway mark. As the pathway is asphalt around the river, the high temperatures felt even hotter, the sun kept getting higher, the air felt stale, I did not feel a breeze and there was no shade. Of course, the weather and temperature is not the responsibility of the race organizers. It would have been great if a few extra aid stations could have been added when high temperatures were predicted, however, I also understand the limitations of a small race. I did see a number of medical aid attendants on bikes throughout the course. And the aid stations that were on the course were well-stocked and supported by local teams of enthusiastic children - very adorable and always made me smile, even with my sunstroke. My disappointment lies with the treatment (or lack thereof) I received once I finished my race. I stumbled straight to the First Aid tent. The man and woman at the tent barely acknowledged me when I asked if I could sit down. The man disappeared and the woman gave me a couple bags of ice, then turned her back and continued to rummage around with whatever else she was doing. My friends and family were with me, and tried to engage her with, explaining that I was a Type 1 Diabetic. At no point did she engage with me directly to make me answer any questions or follow up with my family's concerns regarding my diabetes. A few minutes later, she disappeared all together. I continued to lay there for 45 minutes under ice bags, before I felt well enough to sit up. The First Aid attendant never came back. I understand that small races rely on the support of volunteers, and can appreciate a smaller scale event has less resources. My recommendation would be to ensure that the First Aid tent at the finish is as adequate and helpful as the attendants out and about on bikes.
C. F. from Spokane, Washington (4/22/2014) "Family Friendly and Beautiful Course" (about: 2014) 1 previous marathon \| 1 Wenatchee Marathon COURSE: 5 ORGANIZATION: 5 FANS: 3 I chose this marathon because it is held on Saturday. So few Saturday marathons these days! The weather was perfect started out in the mid 40s and finished in the high 50s. You could feel a bit of a breeze when you crossed the Columbia River and headed north on the far side of the course, but the wind was a non-factor. The trail is paved and in perfect condition flat, no camber, no raised roots. Others have described how scenic the loop is and how it helps having seen the course second time around, but is worth noting there is no significant change in elevation. The 10K, half, and full were well organized to minimize congestion and I think everyone got the 10th annual tech hoodie which was an appreciated bonus since I signed up less than three weeks before the race. Free public parking is available 100 yards from the start/finish which was incredibly convenient. The volunteers were extremely nice and aid stations were about every two miles which seemed perfect. Again, very well organized. I had read some complaints from previous years, but those seemed to have been addressed.
G. S. from Spokane, WA (4/25/2013) "Super course, wonderful weather, gotta do it!!!" (about: 2013) 2 previous marathons \| 1 Wenatchee Marathon COURSE: 5 ORGANIZATION: 5 FANS: 5 A Marathon is an epic in any runner's career. Many events don't seem to realize this, but Wenatchee has it in spades. This gorgeous trail is a 10 mile loop crossing two bridges on the Columbia River, so you do it twice and believe me it's worth getting two looks, it's also nice because you can gauge where you need to focus for the last time around the course. The scenery is breathtaking, one side is manicured with statues and the other side is left undisturbed and natural, the best of both worlds. The weather was nice and cool for the start and then a nice breeze came along later. The volunteers were superb and even had Nutri-grain bars to supplement GU-gel. It wasn't a big event and it wasn't too small, but to me it was EPIC!
m. c. from tonasket wa (4/21/2013) "no shirt" (about: 2012) 6-10 previous marathons \| 1 Wenatchee Marathon COURSE: 4 ORGANIZATION: 1 FANS: 2 Race went great. Love the river trail. Signed up early to get my shirt. Finished the race and they didn't have one in my size. They said they would send me one. After several emails they said they could not get one. Gave me wine glasses instead. Said I could have free entry in next marathon. Several emails more I got the wine glasses. Nothing about free entry in next marathon after a year later. Just beware run fast or you might not get a shirt no matter how early you put your entry form in.
M. S. from Brier, WA (4/23/2012) "Beautiful Course, no crowds." (about: 2012) 11-50 previous marathons \| 1 Wenatchee Marathon COURSE: 4 ORGANIZATION: 3 FANS: 2 This was my first Wenatchee marathon & it won't be the last. This was a beautiful run, with snow capped peaks, blue skies & the ever present Lake Wenatchee. I did have problems finding parking close to the start line & ended up quite a few blocks away. IMO there should have been better directions for event parking, but it's not a huge issue & I'm sure that a little exploration & preparation would turn up some more suitable parking spots. The race Starting Area is small & the small pack of runners mixed between 10K & Full Marathon, which seemed an odd combination but was no big deal. This is a Chip Timed event so you get an accurate finish time & while the chip is large it is really no more substantial than a piece of plasticised paper. This is very light & comfortable to wear, much more comfortable than some races where it's a strap around your ankle & there's a risk of chafing & even blisters. The Aid Stations were a bit spotty, I got the feeling they were a little too far apart & there was one section where they definitely were too far apart. However the sport drink was the reasonably palatable Powerade Ice, not my favourite Lemon-Lime but thankfully NOT 'Cherry' which has to be the most disgusting, gut churning flavour I've ever tasted & should be avoided at all costs. One up for Wenatchee to think of that. Occasionally Gu or Gel packs were handed out too. There's no supporters or crowds & some route junctions were not manned with people to tell you where to go. Luckily brightly coloured, adhesive markers were placed along the route & it was fairly easy to follow. What wasn't followed by some, especially walkers, was etiquette. In several places the trail narrows & early on, on one bridge in particular you had runners coming back towards you. Several times I had walkers who were making it impossible for others to get through as they took up as much space as possible, this was even despite calling out 'Left!' or 'Right!' several times. Marshalls really need to educate slower participants about making sure they don't block the trail for those trying to pass. The course loops around at the 4 mile point & you have to be aware of this for the Full Marathon or otherwise you're taking part in the 10K! Then you do 2 circuits of the lake, something that can play with some people's minds. There's no steep or long hills, the worst climb is where the trail climbs up to the bridge on the east of the lake. Apart from that it is gently rolling, nothing too steep or too long to run up & easy enough on your legs to be able to coast down the other side. It's not a fantastically fast course though as you're pretty much always going up or down. The Finish Line is surprisingly low key & something of a surprise as you have to turn off the trail at the last minute & cross a bridge. The result is you don't see it until the last 100 yards. WHAM! It's suddenly all over. You get a good looking medal & a great T shirt (are you LISTENING Capitol City Marathon????) then there's plenty of snacks & drinks to feast on. This wasn't my quickest run as an injury flared up again & I did struggle with the heat that built up later in the day, a situation exacerbated by spotty water stops. However others may find this course suits them more. Either way it was a delight to participate in this race & it's on my calendar for next year.
A. F. from Washington State (4/18/2011) "I cannot say enough good things..." (about: 2011) 4-5 previous marathons \| 1 Wenatchee Marathon COURSE: 5 ORGANIZATION: 5 FANS: 2 This was a very scenic, virtually traffic-free race. The course is along the water the entire time. The weather was beautiful and the snow-capped mountains were stunning. Medical support was present, along with hydration and GU at mile 6.5. Lots of "real" restrooms - this was a nice change from porta-potties. The communication about the run and events were great. The finish was climactic and rewarding. The zip-up hoody was a very nice treat instead of another T or tech shirt. I will be back for this run. Nice work to the organizers of this race!!!
S. T. from Seattle, WA (4/18/2011) "Fantastic Marathon in every way!" (about: 2011) 11-50 previous marathons COURSE: 5 ORGANIZATION: 5 FANS: 3 This was my first Wenatchee Marathon and I will definitely go back! I really have absolutely nothing negative to say about this race. The course was amazing beautiful - the lake, the snow capped mountains, the trees - breathtaking. Good mix of rolling hills and flats. Aid stations were well stocked with both water and powerade. Gu gels given out twice! Awesome finish line where you cross the bridge and can see the time pulling you home. I loved that! Spectators were minimal, but the ones that were out were great. Don't do this marathon if you need to be 'entertained' the whole way. Packet pick-up and race day logistics were a breeze! Easy parking for everything and easy in & out on race day. We sat in our car until 15 minutes prior to the race start and then went INSIDE to use REAL bathrooms before meandering to the start line. Seriously doesn't get any better than that! Was a perfect weather day for running - blue skies & temps at 46 - 65 degrees throughout. Do this marathon!

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Marathon Details - Wenatchee Marathon