There was some vehicular traffic on the second half of the marathon coming back. There was a big slant in the road, so I tried to run in the middle of the road coming back over the last five miles. When cars came, I had to get to the side, but there was bad footing. Coming back in the last mile or so, runners ran on the right side of the road with traffic. It could have gotten dangerous with cars to runners' backs. You just pray you don't get hit.

This was one of my favorite marathons this year! The weather was perfect. Organization was incredible for a first race. I usually don't care about fans or spectators, but for a small-town first marathon, the handful who showed up and their enthusiasm were awesome! One of my favorite parts of this marathon was the soup at the finish. I had four cups of the soup because it was so tasty.

I agree with D.Y from MI; put this on your calendar for next year.

There were people standing by with bags and markers to take your drop bag while you stood at the starting line. They had homemade soups and cookies for runners and families. Everyone was happy and eager to help. The course was rolling - not as flat as I expected. But a PR race for me. I will be back to race again.

This is a great marathon to run after you run a big-city marathon. Easy to find parking. No-hassle gear check. The organization, town, emergency personnel and spectators all deserve a great big pat on the back for a job well done. The course was fun and challenging. Will be back next year!

It was a complete pleasure to participate in an inaugural marathon. The small Midwestern town was totally behind being taken over for a Saturday. The organization was magnificent, the course was okay (are there no bike paths or the like around?), and racers, spectators, volunteers and organizers, and townsfolk were all smiling and great. I'll be back. The looping design would be good for first-time marathoners who don't want a total commitment.

I enjoyed every aspect of this inaugural race. The organizational details left nothing to chance. Packet pick-up at the YMCA was a breeze. The Y also provided shower facilities after the race for all participants. They even provided the towels. Veterans who participated had the option of having their bibs customized with their branch-of-service's name. Made it easy to identify the vets so they could be thanked for their service to this great country of ours.

Fluid station staffers were vocal and attentive. Spectators were scattered and spaced thinly, but they were supportive. Those that were out earned a five-star rating for their enthusiasm. Also, a huge thanks to the sheriff's department for the traffic control they provided.

Race course was extremely well marked with highly visible directional arrows painted on the road surface, and also with signage indicating direction of turns. Mile markers were highly visible red, white, and blue stripes painted from berm to berm across the roads. Road surface condition was good to excellent, with a stretch of dirt and course gravel thrown in the mix to keep things lively. About 95% of this race occurs out of town in rural areas, hence the unpaved section and low numbers of spectators.

I ran with my training partner through the first half, but ran alone the entire second half.

I'll take a race venue like this over a big-city marathon any day of the week. And, I'll be back for more. Thoroughly enjoyed the entire experience.

Great marathon to run. It's certified, flat and fast. Very well run; the jackets, finisher medals and place awards are top notch. Awesome support from everyone involved. I would say that you should put this on your calender next year if you can.