This was the first one. The race director is a former national class runner and running store owner.

First the cons:
1. packet pick up was backed up; part of it was due to the insistence of using a computer to check people in and assign a number. That adds a few minutes to every person in line. I had to wait about 35 minutes or so.

2. They were late in getting the mile marker signs out; there was the 10 mile marker and then no more until mile 20; then they came every mile. This is NOT a mistake that this RD usually makes; it was a foul up of some sort (likely one time)

Neutral remark: the day came up very hot, and this followed abnormally cool weather. Hence the finish times reflected runners not being acclimatized to the warm, humid conditions.

Pros:
1. The course features a bit of everything: downtown, some park like stretches, old neighborhoods with shade and some views of the Illinois River. This isn't the most scenic I've ever done, but it isn't boring either.

2. There is one hill between miles 7 and 8, and an upgrade around miles 16-18. The last 8 miles or so feature nice gradual downhills; on a cool day this could be a fast course.

3. Aid stations were plentiful; some set up hoses. Also, the aid stations were fully staffed for the entire time; the 'end of the pack' wasn't neglected!

4. At least the first time, the public seemed to support the race. I got a lot of well wishes along the way, even though I was near the back of the pack.

Bling comment: the finisher's medal is big enough to use for a weight training workout. It is very attractive as well.

Race day organization was great. Easy parking, Race started on time. Many more spectators then I was expecting, I was prepared for some lonely miles but there were none. Race director handled the typical problems with multiple distance races following the same course, all turns for marathon 25k were well marked.

I did notice the lack of mile markers. However, most run now with some type of gps device so mile markers were not a huge deterrent to the race.

My only organizational complain was the long line waiting in the sun for packet pick up. Hopefully the computer issues will be solved before the expo next year.

I was most impressed with the local support for this first-time marathon. For example, there were at least 15 separate homes offering sprinklers to cool down the runners. Course was interesting with many twists and turns. Only negative was post-race food which was limited to oranges and bananas. Great medal! Worth running if you are looking for a small town IL marathon.

PROS:
Nice medal (metal circle with cut outs, purple glass inserts, date, and colorful finisher ribbon)

Numerous, well stocked aid stations with helpful volunteers (the ice water helped a LOT)

Honey Stinger gels

Very professional pacers

Arrangements available to shower nearby if your hotel didn't offer late check out

One significant hill, mid-course when you feel strong; 2nd half mostly flat then downhill to the finish

Supportive spectators! Many locals were handing out bottled water, gummies, etc. Others offered to spray you with a hose... or water gun

CONS:
Heat and humidity (could have started at 6:00 instead of 7:00)

Chaotic course! The 25K'ers kept splitting off from then rejoining the marathoners and it wasn't always clear which way to go

Mile markers... absolutely NONE until mile 10, then only every other mile. Even allowing for GPS variability, they were way off as well

Post race 'refreshments' were limited to bottled water, half bananas and orange slices that had been sitting out in the heat for hours

Race day packet pick-up not allowed

No age group awards! Instead, they simply awarded the first 50 men and 50 women to cross the finish line. I guess that makes the determination easier but it sure favors 20-40 year olds

Hotel information... there was no 'host' hotel but the special negotiated rates the web site mentioned for Springhill Suites implied a degree of affiliation. It was actually several miles away, though. Fortunately, I did a little research on my own and chose the Mark Twain. I can't recommend it enough. The start was less than a block away. The room was nicely appointed with fridge, microwave, and DVD player (with over 300 movies available to check out at no charge from the desk). They allowed late check out. Parking, internet, and made-to-order breakfast were included. The attached restaurant was fantastic. I had a delicious pasta dish (chicken carbonara) and freshly baked bread the night before. Staying at the Mark Twain was the highlight of this trip.

The marathon went well. All was set up too well. the people were happy about the course. I think it will be bigger next year. And just as good and great.