Race organizers have put together a small-town marathon that punches above its weight class. The course is gently rolling hills with about 1100' of grade change, though the second half (after the half marathoners have split off to finish) is sparsely attended and not very exciting - an out and back along a section of rural highway still open to traffic, save for a 2' wide section on one side that is coned off, and permanent enough that has DOT road signs identifying the marathon mile markers.) The swag is abundant, post race food (chicken stew, a selection of beer, ice cream, in addition to the usual bars, cookies, and packaged fare) was good. The race medal was wood, and my age group award was a matted race print, a pair of slipper socks and a 5# bag of potatoes. Overall winners of both the full and half- distances also collect cash awards. Race photos were free and abundant, though runners will have to locate themselves from the thousand or so images posted on Facebook. The dozen on-course aid stations seemed frequent enough and more than the expected number had port-o-lets and gels, though they had significant problems getting the Gatorade mixed correctly. Of those I tried, I recall two stations were weak, two had Gatorade sludge in the cups, one had some sparkling drink (Nuun?) that decidedly was not Gatorade, and two had only water when I asked for the sports drink. Back of the pack pacers for the half marathon reported that some of the hydration stations were depleted or packed up by the time they got there. Accommodations were good, access was easier than expected (Flying into tiny, nearby Presque Isle did NOT cost an arm and a leg, though it did require a change of planes.) All in all, I'd give it a B-... they'll move up to a B+ if they can fix the hydration issues. It's a GREAT choice to check off Maine without the crazy topography elsewhere in the state.

Went up to the 'county' for a last minute try at a Boston Qualifier. While the race was small you couldn't ask for better organization and support. I'm not 100% sure but I think the entire town of Caribou came out to support the runners. The first half is very hilly, with a short 3 mile loop around the town followed by a trip out into the rolling hills. The views really show you what Northern Maine is all about, and you rarely passed a house without it's residents out on the lawn cheering, playing music, and offering support. There was water every two miles, and electrolyte drinks and energy gells every 4. The second half of the marathon gets a bit quieter, but the course flattens a bit. The course was as well marked as you could ask for. All in all I was blown away at how well this race was put on. If you enjoy smalltown marathons and don't mind a few hills, get up to Caribou in 2018.

It is hard to believe this was the first Marathon in Caribou. The organization was excellent! From the expo all the way through to the awards this race had a real down home feel to it. The course was beautiful and challenging. The crowd support was great....it seemed like the whole town came out for the event. I have run many marathons and the shirts and Goody bag were top shelf.