Just when I thought a marathon could not get any better, along comes the Santa Rosa Marathon. Although it did not have the hype, the crowds, and the bells and whistles of all the marathons that most recreational runners are accustomed to seeing, this marathon was a marathoner's marathon. As I reflect on my weekend experience, I can write with certainty that it was all good.

The Expo. It was small, but with a small marathon comes a small expo. The vendors were very friendly and they offered a unique selection of items. For once it was nice not to see the same vendors selling the same things that I see at every expo.

The Pasta Dinner. I did not attend the dinner, but at least there was a dinner available and the posted price seemed reasonable.

Porta-Potties. There were plenty of porta-potties near the starting area and along the course.

The Start. Runners were asked to line up according to the expected pace per mile signs that were posted at the starting line. Runners actually understood the concept of the honor system and lined up accordingly. This was one of the few times that I did not have to dodge walkers and joggers that feel it necessary to start near the front.

Having run marathons that began more than 30 minutes late (i.e., the 2010 LA Marathon), I have no complaints that this one began about five minutes late.

The Weather. The weather was perfect for a marathon. At the start, the temperature was near 50 degrees, there was a slight breeze, and the skies were slightly overcast. Although the sun came out an hour into the race, it did not get hot. Four hours after the start, I do not think it was any warmer than the low 60's.

The Course. The course consisted of two out-and-back, 13.1-mile loops to accommodate both the marathoners and half-marathoners. Although the marathon began near downtown Santa Rosa, the course had more of a rural feel as we ran on bike paths and trails along the Santa Rosa Creek. We passed a lot of vineyards, farms and some open space as well. The first loop was a little crowded with 200 marathoners and 600 half-marathoners, but the second loop was spacious and serene. Water, energy drink and gel stops were adequately spaced along the course. We had to make several turns, some of which were 90 and 180 degrees, but the course was perfectly marked.

Volunteers. How could any marathon be successful without the support of the volunteers? From those working at the water stations to those posted near turns in the course to those working at the starting and finish lines, thank you to you all. The marathon would not have been a success without you.

The Spectators. There were long stretches with no spectators, but when there were spectators, they clapped, yelled and cheered. Unlike some, I do not need spectators lining the entire length of a course to cheer me on. I train without spectators and can race without spectators.

The Finish. The marathon finished on grass in Julliard Park. I saw children running the straight-away with their moms and dads. You will never see this in a large marathon. Frankly, I thought it was refreshing. Remember, it is a team effort. Although the runner completes the race, it is the family and friends that support and encourage the runner in the weeks and months leading up to the race.

Post Race Party. Nice music, atmosphere and camaraderie.

Recommendation. Take a break from Competitor Group's money-making Rock and Roll Series and experience the marathon the way it was meant to be experienced: Run in next year's Santa Rosa Marathon.

This was a fabulous, well-organized marathon. The volunteers were great, always offering water, sports drink, gels, and support in the form of cheering. The course was beautiful. I didn't mind the double loop at all, it kind of helped the miles melt by. I didn't mind the hard-packed shale, but I could see how some wouldn't like it. The finish area was great. Loved the medal and t-shirt. Excellent marathon. I will be back next year!

This is a high-quality, small marathon, especially for the first time. I would second everything said by David Bourne.

It's not a PR course because of the gravel surface and many 90° and 180° turns going over the bridges. I got a little dizzy. :-) It is very safe because of the absence of motorized traffic, and I would recommend it to anyone not focused totally on setting a PR.

With most of the 600 participants opting for the half-marathon, the second loop can get a little lonely if you require other competitors to keep focused.

This marathon was on a scenic, flat course alongside the Santa Rosa creek. It was basically an out-and-back for the half-marathon, and a double out-and-back for the marathoners. It also consisted of crossing over the creek on pedestrian bridges, or a vehicle overpass with sidewalks. The race director placed a high priority on runner safety, keeping us out of the streets, and marking any impediments on the course to keep anyone from falling or tripping.

The RD's communication was excellent: in addition to the marathon website, he sent us emails to ensure that we came to the start well-informed about what was in store. Parking was arranged in a nearby structure. The people at aid stations, the start/finish line, and the bridge-crossing (and other helpers) were consistently smiling, supportive and ready help you be successful. In addition to these volunteers, the spectators - on the overpasses and bridges, and at the start/finish - were not only spectators, but were excellent at keeping us going with their encouragement and clapping. The Adidas t-shirt, the cap, and the unique finisher's medal are very nice and "memorialize" a significant accomplishment. I want to note that this was a very runner-oriented marathon, and a big pat on-the-back goes to the race director Arthor Webb, who very recently completed his 12th consecutive Badwater 135-mile endurance run from Death Valley to the Whitney Portal. Wow! No wonder he is so good at planning and delivering such a fine marathon!

I ran the half; the marathon was two loops, so I feel qualified to rate the course. It was beautiful! GREAT tech t-shirt (Adidas!), NEAT medal, and nice hat. GREAT start/finish area. I will definitely do it again next year and bring my friends!