This race was excellently organized, well supported and an absolute blast to run. The volunteers, who probably outnumbered the runners, were cheerful, helpful, and genuinely excited to be there. This race is definitely well endorsed by the community and I will hopefully return soon.

The course is great for a fast time despite the high altitude at the start. Most of the course is downhill netting a net 1400' drop, although a few rolling hills in the second half can make the legs scream a bit. However, temperatures in the 50s and a tailwind in 2012 gave this race nearly perfect conditions.

The race director was on top of everything down to the minor details. He ensured that the runners were safe on an open course, which ran along the shoulder of a highway against traffic. Police were seen frequently cruising the course to maintain runner safety. Other small touches gave this race a unique personality. Runners were allowed to drop water bottles at packet pickup to be used at specific aid stations during the race much like elite athletes can in larger races. The treasure finding prize which rewarded the person who found the most money on the race course was another unique aspect. Finally, the finish and post race recovery was well staffed and competently put together.

The Bluff Fort is a perfect space for runners to gather, receive massages, eat, drink, and await the award ceremony. The awards, by the way, were spectacular. Handmade pottery awards went to the age group winners and stunning raffle prizes like balloon rides or rafting trips down the San Juan were abundant. This race is a must do for anyone who enjoys small town hospitality, environment, and atmosphere of the gorgeous southwest.

This was my second marathon and I was pleased. I love small races for the intimacy that you feel with other runners and the volunteers. Blanding is surprisingly beautiful and the run is through the rugged beauty of southern Utah. The last mile is by far the best, not only is it downhill but it is through gorgeous bluff canyon and past twin rocks!! I would definitely recommend this to anyone looking for a race through wide open spaces. Do it!

I cannot say enough good things about this race. There were just over 100 runners, but the amenities and organization were better than at many 1000+ marathons I've been to.

The course is almost entirely downhill- probably a faster course than St George. Runners get hoodies, and the finisher's medal is elegant and heavy. The community offers spectacular support - they seemed eager to awake early, dress in costume, and host a party at their aid stations, which by the way, were well organized. One quirky aspect is that the race director scatters coins along the course and offers a prize to the best treasure hunter.
The best small race I've been to. I highly recommend you run here!

I cannot say enough about the hometown hospitality of this race. The aid stations were well stocked and there were two elite stations for runners' favorite drinks and gels.

The race directors made sure everyone felt special in this race. The shirts, medals and awards were unique. The post race food was great especially the chocolate milk.

The town of Bluff made everyone feel welcome and I was surprised to see so many residents of Blanding and Bluff supporting the runners so early in the morning.

I would recommend this race to anyone but make sure you look out for those hills in the second half of the race.

This is by far, the BEST first time effort that I have ever experienced! Though a small marathon, they attended to every detail of a large one from the well organized pick up, pasta party, porta potties along the route, well stocked aid stations & a great finish with lots of food & a fun atmosphere. I hope the word will spread so that they meet their goal of 250 runners next year. This race is well worth the trip. Afterward, there are many beautiful sights to see in the area.

As a small-town guy, I truly appreciated everything that was done to make this a very professional marathon experience in a very rural part of our beautiful country.

This marathon featured a nice personal touch, amazing volunteers, a true family experience, a beautiful course, amazing door prizes (way to go local merchants), and massages that were second to none!