This was cool running down the strip and through downtown in the early hours with all the drunks and crazies returning home from their night of partying. That was funny and fun. Then the second half of the race arrived and I was running in 32-38 degree weather and freezing my buns off through what looked like Mars. Heard they have changed the start time from AM to PM which probably helps a lot and there is a half that is all on the strip. Much better.

I ran the half in 2011, and, despite all of the organizational issues, had a huge PR so I set my sights on the full for 2012. I thought the overall organization was excellent and much better than 2011. Plenty of fluids along the course, great course markings and I appreciated the course itself, especially running through the brightly lit indoor mall at Mile 22 after many dark, more quiet miles. My goal was 4 hours and I missed it by 9 minutes but given the wind, I was very happy with my performance and the race.

Competitor really tried and succeeded in improving this years race. I ran the half, all the volunteers handing out water we're wearing gloves. There was plenty of water/cups, the Gatorade was good too. The roads off the strip were well light with portable lights, really appreciated that. The start was a great wave start. Also would like to say I traveled from Indiana to do the race and made the mistake of putting my finisher's medal in my checked bag. When I got home and unpacked it was missing from my bag. After contacting Competitor and telling them what happened they sent me another medal-thank you so much Competitor! I greatly appreciated their efforts this year in making the improvements.

This was my 4th time running the Las Vegas marathon and I want to say this is by far the best edition. Many of the problems that runners faced in 2011 were addressed. I am happy to report that I will definitely run this one again and have higher hopes for other Competitor Group races.

Pros:
1) Running on the strip  one of a kind experience. Crowd support along here was also great.
2) The shirt was probably the best they have ever done. I really liked the design
3) Cool medal
4) No interference from the half marathoners. Running down Freemont street was a serious plus (something the halfer's didn't get to experience).
5) Nice expo with lots of opportunities to shop and browse.
6) Awesome course support (thanks volunteers)

Cons:
1) A little lonesome on the second half of the course. It had its moments but there weren't many bands / spectators out there at all. There were some nice views of the strip from a distance out there.
2) The water at mile 10 tasted awful. Luckily this was the only spot that was 'off'.
3) Pricey race, although the experience is definitely worth it.
4) Finishing corrals took a while to get out of and seemed cramped at times. Still MUCH better than 2011's though.
5) Course seemed long. I ran 26.52 miles according to my Garmin.

Tips:
1) Hydrate. It is dry out there.
2) If they re-run this course, it is slightly hilly, especially the second half. Be ready for some deceptively slow inclines.
3) Las Vegas elevation is higher than you think, so if you are coming from lower elevations, expect to take a hit.

Once again, kudos to Competitor group and see you in 2013.

I read about the previous years and registered with hesitation. 2012 was very well organized. The course was half spectacular/half boring as can be. It is not as flat as I expected, but not bad-long gradual hills. The weather was a big issue- warm and windy. I underestimated the dryness factor and paid a hefty price for this when I did not drink nearly enough early on. Rookie error.

I loved this race but those have not run this course should note the following, 1. You start in sunlight and end in the dark. This years race started at 3:30 and by 5 you are in the remote area of the race and it is dark for about 1hr and half. 2. It is very crowded after the race and gear check is a distance from the end and the strip is packed. If you are working back down to the strp it can take be very crowded and take sometime to meet up with your family. 3. It is extremely windy, it is fine if your going with the wind the first half but when you come back I was running directly into the wind. This was my 14th Marathon and in no way would I think anyone could pr this race based on the faster courses I have run. It is a lot of fun but allow yourself so extra time getting around to and from the expo. Going anywhere in Vegas takes time. I think things were very organized and I think anyone running this race will have before, during, and after. Just don't expect to run a PR if you have run other races.

They make cut off in the race, they didn't have this well organized, they put an electronic matt where they shouldn't so my results show as if I hadn't completed 26.2, so I will never run this again.

Overall, much improved from the previous year. My only problem with the race was the north part of the course, which was very isolated, very few spectators, and overall, boring. Running down the strip and also through Fremont street was great. There was good support on the course with fluids and the course was not too hilly. I think this marathon could be a PR course, but with Vegas it depends on the weather. It was very windy for about 18 of 26 miles, which added 10-15 minutes to your time. However, overall it was a good experience and would run it again.

I switched to the 1/2 marathon after an expo person told me the 4 1/2 hour max for the marathon was firm and that 'runners would be picked up promptly at 4 1/2 hours and transported to the finish' after that so they could open the road. I did the 1/2 in 2 hours so it would have been close. Turns out - what a lie; almost half the runners finished over the 4 1/2 hour 'limit'. I wrote Rock'n' Roll and email bounced back. Figures; that is what you get when you go to a big marathon....don't feel heard.

To anyone considering entering the full, dont. The half will be much more fun. The majority of the full course is dark, desolate, with no spectators, minimal support, and only about 2 bands.
They are also SORT OF serious about the 4:30 cutoff. You must maintain that pace for 14 miles or you will get a DNF. The good news, if you can get to the 14 mile mark in time you can walk the rest. That's fair (sarcasm).