Marathon Details - New River Marathon

North America Marathons > USA > NC > Todd > New River Marathon

New River Marathon & Half Marathon, 5K

Todd, NC USA

May 18, 2024

https://www.newrivermarathon.com

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Results:	2023 \| 2022 \| 2021 \| 2020 \| 2019 \| 2018 \| 2017 \| 2016 \| 2015 \| 2014 \| 2013 \| 2012 \| 2011 Top 3 Finishers by Year

Contact More Info Organizer

Name:	Ken Sevensky
Address:	2385 Big Flatts Church Rd. Fleetwood, NC 28626
Phone Number:	336-877-8888
Email:	Email the organizers



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Reviews

Course 4.7

Organization 4.4

Spectators 3.5

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Number of comments: 26 [displaying comments 1 to 11]

More Comments: [ < 1 2 3 > ]

B. W. from Michigan (5/16/2022) "Beautiful (and plentiful) hills" (about: 2022) 11-50 previous marathons \| 1 New River Marathon COURSE: 4 ORGANIZATION: 5 FANS: 2 This is a small, no-frills race. 200 marathoners. LOTS of big hills to train for. Roads are open to traffic; most cars were respectful. Lots of volunteers making sure nobody goes off-course. Wooden medals from re-purposed barnwood. Sweet AG awards carved from wood too.
J. S. from ND (8/20/2019) "rainy, hilly and awesome" (about: 2019) 11-50 previous marathons \| 1 New River Marathon COURSE: 5 ORGANIZATION: 5 FANS: 5 It rained heavily the entire race but that sometimes comes with the territory. This was a great race on a beautiful course in a cool remote part of the country. It is a hilly tough course. This is exactly the type of race I wanted. Challenging, difficult and gorgeous. A true adventurous marathon. Train hard.
D. L. from North Carolina (6/8/2019) "Rain or Shine" (about: 2019) 50+ previous marathons \| 2 New River Marathons COURSE: 5 ORGANIZATION: 5 FANS: 5 Rain or Shine, this course is always awesome. Today in the pouring rain, volunteers and race support were unmatched - including help to get some parked cars out of the mud! Certainly the most natural/remote environment for a road marathon. This tough course holds a steep climb for the last 2 miles...Not a PR course but no one will mind if you walk the hills.
T. M. from Greensboro, NC (5/18/2016) "Great support and great views...." (about: 2016) 11-50 previous marathons \| 1 New River Marathon COURSE: 5 ORGANIZATION: 5 FANS: 4 The New River Marathon is a beautiful race with great support. It is essentially 2 lollipops. One that is about 11 miles long (1 mile out-9 mile loop and the same 1 mile back) that will take you back to the start/finish. The second lollipop is 6 miles along the river with a tough 3 mile loop and the same 6 miles back. However, those 6 miles out to the loop and the 6 miles back to the finish are absolutely flat and actually felt downhill, both ways. In terms of hills, the 2 majors ones are at 8 and 19. A couple of smaller hills get you ready for them at 5 and 17.5 respectively. We were 4+ hour marathoners, so most people were walking up the second hill. However, I wouldn't consider it especially hilly (minus the 2 big hills) and highly recommend it. Great support along the course and beautiful views. Not too many spectators, but this is going to be expected for a marathon with 200 runners. The only thing I would think of that I didn't like was the lack of food by the time we finished towards the end of the marathon. That is expected with a 5K and much larger half-marathon before us. Also, make sure you order the tech t-shirt instead of the cotton one - pay the extra $5. Boone is a nice little college town - great place to stay the night before and explore after the race if you legs allow for it.
d. l. from Charlotte, NC (5/8/2016) "Tough, gorgeous course. Top-Notch organization." (about: 2016) 50+ previous marathons \| 1 New River Marathon COURSE: 5 ORGANIZATION: 5 FANS: 3 As described - tough course...start is at 7:30, late enough to drive up in the morning and get there on time. Beautiful, incredibly beautiful course. Except for a few (spectators crew) cars the course is all yours. very scenic and unique nature views. but the best is the superb organization and atmosphere at the start / finish. well stacked for the price, band and PLENTY of food at the finish. very well organized. Not everyone might enjoy the course if they don't know what to expect, hills and heat...be prepared as always, this was #85 for me, it might not be your best choice for a 1st marathon :) but if you make it to the finish, your family and friends will remember this area forever. if you can carry your camera on the course...my only regret, but I will be back next year.
Jeni Enjaian from South Carolina (5/31/2015) "Beautiful (Very) Small Town Marathon and Half" (about: 2012) 6-10 previous marathons \| 1 New River Marathon COURSE: 5 ORGANIZATION: 4 FANS: 2 Originally I had intended to run the half but decided 8 weeks out to run the full. Some things may have changed since I ran in 2012 but here is my review. First, spectators. There are none, except for at the start/finish which you also pass after a 7ish mile loop at the beginning. This race is in almost the epitome of nowhere, Christmas tree country of rural NC where the closest hotel is in a small town 20 minutes away. The course is spectacular, the reason that this race should be run. Some, not much, of the course is unpaved but it's hard-packed gravel, not bad at all. There is one rather challenging hill at mile 17 but the views at the summit more than make up for it. I walked the hill then but in hindsight it is runnable for more experienced runners. (It was only my 2nd marathon.) Be careful on the downhill though or it will shred your quads. The remainder of the course runs along the New River and is thus flat and eminently runnable. The finish line 'swag' is not typical. The year I ran we received a hand stamped wooden medal. Other years have been different and if some reviews are to be believed, less than satisfactory. There was plenty of refreshment at the finish line and general store. They were even kind enough to open up a different section of the store so that I could get a chocolate shake, a typical post marathon craving for me. This is not a marathon for those who desire any sort of frills. However, I thought that it was a well-run small town marathon, an excellent option for those who want to cross NC off their 50 states list.
Masciello Anthony from Winston-Salem, NC (11/9/2014) "Beautiful and Brutal" (about: 2014) 11-50 previous marathons \| 1 New River Marathon COURSE: 5 ORGANIZATION: 5 FANS: 4 Gorgeous scenery. Tough climbs. Not a PR race for the average human but defintely worth the effort. Great organizers.
E. F. from AL (6/18/2013) "Exceptional" (about: 2013) 11-50 previous marathons \| 1 New River Marathon COURSE: 5 ORGANIZATION: 5 FANS: 5 When I was picking a May marathon I was looking for a low-key, scenic race. The New River Marathon exceeded all of my expectations. The course was challenging, but this was indicated on the race website. Personally, I loved having a goal like this so I knew what type of training (hard, hilly) I needed to be doing. It's the kind of race you train for, not just decide to do at the last minute. Aid stations were well-stocked and well-manned. I was able to go through the portapotty line in less than five minutes. This alone makes it one of my favorite races. The thing that got me about this race is that it was COLD, as in sub40s. I didn't even have a long sleeve shirt because I was expecting hot and humid. Just a heads up to fellow Southerners: May isn't summer in the mountains. Pre-race dinner was tasty, though I was surprised that there were no sports drinks offered, only soft drinks, tea and water. Post-race there was a colorful band and adequate snacks. I got to the dinner late and was too cold to stick around long after the race, so I don't know if I just missed the expo or if there was none. There was a tent with shirts and some local crafty stuff after the race. I feel certain that local vendors (maybe from the nearby college town?) could easily sell stuff there if they were invited and I would have liked to have seen more of the local atmosphere. The staff was second to none! At the pre-race dinner I asked someone for directions to a local business and at least five people came to tell me directions and even draw me a map! Officials were attentive during the course (always pointing if there was a turn, saying encouraging things). Tip: We stayed at Laurel Ridge, a place advertised on the race website. It was absolutely phenomenal in every way BUT it's about 45 minutes from the race. There are hotels closer in Boone. A lot of people whined about not having a medal, but I liked the magnet. Seriously, what do people do with medals? I put my magnet on my car and enjoy talking about the race when people ask me about my spiffy magnet. If you want something really awesome then run faster and get one of their unique prizes (my goal for next year!) This is definitely a race for serious runners, by serious runners. Every important detail (hydration, course signs, logistics) was attended to and the frills (expo, medal) were not. I love it!
J. K. from Athens, Georgia (5/8/2013) "A challenging and uniquely beautiful marathon" (about: 2013) 11-50 previous marathons \| 1 New River Marathon COURSE: 5 ORGANIZATION: 4 FANS: 3 New River Marathon is just wonderful. The organizers and volunteers clearly work very hard to cover all the bases and provide runners a special, memorable experience. The course is truly beautiful and has a good variety of terrain. It's tough, no doubt about that, but I was able to run the entire thing and the climbs and descents aren't ridiculously difficult. I have nothing but praise for this race and hope to return and get around the course a little faster next time!
a. R. from Wilmington, nc (5/6/2013) "Beautiful course......very hilly!" (about: 2013) 6-10 previous marathons \| 1 New River Marathon COURSE: 5 ORGANIZATION: 4 FANS: 3 I wanted to really challenge myself and run a beautiful course. That's exactly what you will get. You cant train for a course like this, unless you live in the mountains. I live at the beach so challenging is an understatement. Very hilly, the down hills were harder on my body than up. The scenery is beautiful and I was never board. No frills, very few people cheering, I did run alone most of the race. I did end up qualifying for Boston but this is not a course for a PR. This is a course to enjoy running in the mountains. I highly recomend this marathon, this was my 9th and one of my favorites.

More Comments: [ < 1 2 3 > ]

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B. W. from Michigan (5/16/2022) "Beautiful (and plentiful) hills" (about: 2022) 11-50 previous marathons \| 1 New River Marathon COURSE: 4 ORGANIZATION: 5 FANS: 2 This is a small, no-frills race. 200 marathoners. LOTS of big hills to train for. Roads are open to traffic; most cars were respectful. Lots of volunteers making sure nobody goes off-course. Wooden medals from re-purposed barnwood. Sweet AG awards carved from wood too.
J. S. from ND (8/20/2019) "rainy, hilly and awesome" (about: 2019) 11-50 previous marathons \| 1 New River Marathon COURSE: 5 ORGANIZATION: 5 FANS: 5 It rained heavily the entire race but that sometimes comes with the territory. This was a great race on a beautiful course in a cool remote part of the country. It is a hilly tough course. This is exactly the type of race I wanted. Challenging, difficult and gorgeous. A true adventurous marathon. Train hard.
D. L. from North Carolina (6/8/2019) "Rain or Shine" (about: 2019) 50+ previous marathons \| 2 New River Marathons COURSE: 5 ORGANIZATION: 5 FANS: 5 Rain or Shine, this course is always awesome. Today in the pouring rain, volunteers and race support were unmatched - including help to get some parked cars out of the mud! Certainly the most natural/remote environment for a road marathon. This tough course holds a steep climb for the last 2 miles...Not a PR course but no one will mind if you walk the hills.
T. M. from Greensboro, NC (5/18/2016) "Great support and great views...." (about: 2016) 11-50 previous marathons \| 1 New River Marathon COURSE: 5 ORGANIZATION: 5 FANS: 4 The New River Marathon is a beautiful race with great support. It is essentially 2 lollipops. One that is about 11 miles long (1 mile out-9 mile loop and the same 1 mile back) that will take you back to the start/finish. The second lollipop is 6 miles along the river with a tough 3 mile loop and the same 6 miles back. However, those 6 miles out to the loop and the 6 miles back to the finish are absolutely flat and actually felt downhill, both ways. In terms of hills, the 2 majors ones are at 8 and 19. A couple of smaller hills get you ready for them at 5 and 17.5 respectively. We were 4+ hour marathoners, so most people were walking up the second hill. However, I wouldn't consider it especially hilly (minus the 2 big hills) and highly recommend it. Great support along the course and beautiful views. Not too many spectators, but this is going to be expected for a marathon with 200 runners. The only thing I would think of that I didn't like was the lack of food by the time we finished towards the end of the marathon. That is expected with a 5K and much larger half-marathon before us. Also, make sure you order the tech t-shirt instead of the cotton one - pay the extra $5. Boone is a nice little college town - great place to stay the night before and explore after the race if you legs allow for it.
d. l. from Charlotte, NC (5/8/2016) "Tough, gorgeous course. Top-Notch organization." (about: 2016) 50+ previous marathons \| 1 New River Marathon COURSE: 5 ORGANIZATION: 5 FANS: 3 As described - tough course...start is at 7:30, late enough to drive up in the morning and get there on time. Beautiful, incredibly beautiful course. Except for a few (spectators crew) cars the course is all yours. very scenic and unique nature views. but the best is the superb organization and atmosphere at the start / finish. well stacked for the price, band and PLENTY of food at the finish. very well organized. Not everyone might enjoy the course if they don't know what to expect, hills and heat...be prepared as always, this was #85 for me, it might not be your best choice for a 1st marathon :) but if you make it to the finish, your family and friends will remember this area forever. if you can carry your camera on the course...my only regret, but I will be back next year.
Jeni Enjaian from South Carolina (5/31/2015) "Beautiful (Very) Small Town Marathon and Half" (about: 2012) 6-10 previous marathons \| 1 New River Marathon COURSE: 5 ORGANIZATION: 4 FANS: 2 Originally I had intended to run the half but decided 8 weeks out to run the full. Some things may have changed since I ran in 2012 but here is my review. First, spectators. There are none, except for at the start/finish which you also pass after a 7ish mile loop at the beginning. This race is in almost the epitome of nowhere, Christmas tree country of rural NC where the closest hotel is in a small town 20 minutes away. The course is spectacular, the reason that this race should be run. Some, not much, of the course is unpaved but it's hard-packed gravel, not bad at all. There is one rather challenging hill at mile 17 but the views at the summit more than make up for it. I walked the hill then but in hindsight it is runnable for more experienced runners. (It was only my 2nd marathon.) Be careful on the downhill though or it will shred your quads. The remainder of the course runs along the New River and is thus flat and eminently runnable. The finish line 'swag' is not typical. The year I ran we received a hand stamped wooden medal. Other years have been different and if some reviews are to be believed, less than satisfactory. There was plenty of refreshment at the finish line and general store. They were even kind enough to open up a different section of the store so that I could get a chocolate shake, a typical post marathon craving for me. This is not a marathon for those who desire any sort of frills. However, I thought that it was a well-run small town marathon, an excellent option for those who want to cross NC off their 50 states list.
Masciello Anthony from Winston-Salem, NC (11/9/2014) "Beautiful and Brutal" (about: 2014) 11-50 previous marathons \| 1 New River Marathon COURSE: 5 ORGANIZATION: 5 FANS: 4 Gorgeous scenery. Tough climbs. Not a PR race for the average human but defintely worth the effort. Great organizers.
E. F. from AL (6/18/2013) "Exceptional" (about: 2013) 11-50 previous marathons \| 1 New River Marathon COURSE: 5 ORGANIZATION: 5 FANS: 5 When I was picking a May marathon I was looking for a low-key, scenic race. The New River Marathon exceeded all of my expectations. The course was challenging, but this was indicated on the race website. Personally, I loved having a goal like this so I knew what type of training (hard, hilly) I needed to be doing. It's the kind of race you train for, not just decide to do at the last minute. Aid stations were well-stocked and well-manned. I was able to go through the portapotty line in less than five minutes. This alone makes it one of my favorite races. The thing that got me about this race is that it was COLD, as in sub40s. I didn't even have a long sleeve shirt because I was expecting hot and humid. Just a heads up to fellow Southerners: May isn't summer in the mountains. Pre-race dinner was tasty, though I was surprised that there were no sports drinks offered, only soft drinks, tea and water. Post-race there was a colorful band and adequate snacks. I got to the dinner late and was too cold to stick around long after the race, so I don't know if I just missed the expo or if there was none. There was a tent with shirts and some local crafty stuff after the race. I feel certain that local vendors (maybe from the nearby college town?) could easily sell stuff there if they were invited and I would have liked to have seen more of the local atmosphere. The staff was second to none! At the pre-race dinner I asked someone for directions to a local business and at least five people came to tell me directions and even draw me a map! Officials were attentive during the course (always pointing if there was a turn, saying encouraging things). Tip: We stayed at Laurel Ridge, a place advertised on the race website. It was absolutely phenomenal in every way BUT it's about 45 minutes from the race. There are hotels closer in Boone. A lot of people whined about not having a medal, but I liked the magnet. Seriously, what do people do with medals? I put my magnet on my car and enjoy talking about the race when people ask me about my spiffy magnet. If you want something really awesome then run faster and get one of their unique prizes (my goal for next year!) This is definitely a race for serious runners, by serious runners. Every important detail (hydration, course signs, logistics) was attended to and the frills (expo, medal) were not. I love it!
J. K. from Athens, Georgia (5/8/2013) "A challenging and uniquely beautiful marathon" (about: 2013) 11-50 previous marathons \| 1 New River Marathon COURSE: 5 ORGANIZATION: 4 FANS: 3 New River Marathon is just wonderful. The organizers and volunteers clearly work very hard to cover all the bases and provide runners a special, memorable experience. The course is truly beautiful and has a good variety of terrain. It's tough, no doubt about that, but I was able to run the entire thing and the climbs and descents aren't ridiculously difficult. I have nothing but praise for this race and hope to return and get around the course a little faster next time!
a. R. from Wilmington, nc (5/6/2013) "Beautiful course......very hilly!" (about: 2013) 6-10 previous marathons \| 1 New River Marathon COURSE: 5 ORGANIZATION: 4 FANS: 3 I wanted to really challenge myself and run a beautiful course. That's exactly what you will get. You cant train for a course like this, unless you live in the mountains. I live at the beach so challenging is an understatement. Very hilly, the down hills were harder on my body than up. The scenery is beautiful and I was never board. No frills, very few people cheering, I did run alone most of the race. I did end up qualifying for Boston but this is not a course for a PR. This is a course to enjoy running in the mountains. I highly recomend this marathon, this was my 9th and one of my favorites.

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Marathon Details - New River Marathon