Grand Canyon International Marathon - Race Reviews

The course was a little hilly, mostly flat except for a steep hill towards the end... about mile 22 if I remember. It was in the 70's, low humidity which was a pleasure compared to running in SC. Drink plenty of water because you do not realize how much you are sweating because it evaporates so fast. When I finished I was covered in salt crystals... never have that in the Southeast!! This was the first marathon I had run so I cannot compare to others. My objective was to finish without the EMT's taking me from the course, which I did in a rather slow fashion. We stayed in Las Vegas and it was a long drive there and back on a bus but was pleasant. We had some good company to chat with coming and going. I enjoyed the beautiful views of the canyon. I would recommend this marathon as a once in a lifetime event. I was surprised there were not more people in it though. JCB

There is something wrong with a race when approximately 400 people start it, and only 107 (plus 81 half marathoners) finish it. With some important logistical changes and more honest promotion, this could be an 'event of a lifetime' marathon. Instead, it was a bit of a nightmare, and that's a shame – and a potentially DANGEROUS shame, at that. First: the course is NOT relatively flat, and had I known that, I would have trained differently. This is more of an adventure race than a regular marathon -- promote it as such. Second: provide more information on chartering a plane or helicopter from Vegas. It would have been worth the extra cost, and surely some decent group rates could be had if enough racers opted for this method of transportation. Third: set up more water stops, and add some with fruit slices, gels, etc. Fourth: offer whole bottles of water at the end of the race, not just small paper cups, and have sports drink available at the end of the race! It wasn't just the food that was lacking at the end of this race, it was the ability to rehydrate AT ALL. I was fine when I finished the race – but ended up needing an IV an hour and a half AFTER the race because there was no way for me to rehydrate. The fact that we had enough people to form an IV club at the end of the race isn’t because of inexperienced marathon runners who didn’t understand the need to drink fluids – it’s because of the inadequate water stops during the race and inadequate hydration options after the race. Fifth: provide more tents/shelter at the end of the race – having to wait for everyone to finish wouldn’t have been as much of an issue if there had been somewhere out of the sun (and with lots of water and sports drink available – even if I had to pay for it!). Sixth: have more medical personnel and supplies on hand – particularly if you ignore the first five pointers. You are very lucky that none of the runners died that day, and I am not exaggerating. As for some of the other runners’ complaints about cost – that didn’t bother me. I expected to pay more for a race in such a special location. I didn’t mind that there was minimal crowd support – what do you expect of a race that’s out in the middle of nowhere? This is not New York or Chicago. The volunteers who were there were fantastic. I wouldn’t change the direction of the course, just be honest about what the course is like: rolling, undulating for the ENTIRE way with two steep rises toward the end, providing a major challenge for the experienced marathoner or adventure racer looking for an extraordinary experience. If there’s a way to make it so you can opt for the half marathon at mile 13, rather than having to make the decision just a few miles into the race (when everyone still has no idea how tough the day is going to be), I would highly recommend you do so. It took me an hour longer to finish this race than my usual marathon times, but under the circumstances, I was just glad I finished... and lived to tell about it!

This race needs improvement in the areas of 'honest promotion', 'runner support' and 'medical services'. A few promotional discepancies: The course was NOT geneally flat. Water/aid stations were NOT located every mile. Weather/altitude extremes were NOT adequately disclosed. October is NOT the perfect month to hold this race. This race was NOT comfortable for runners of every caliber and the course was NOT conducive to finishing in a 'competitive time'. See 2002 and 2003 results. Medical services were NOT adequate. The race was held at a remote location (with no doctor?). Please make improvements in promotion and support before you 'lose' a runner. This was my 9th marathon, glad it wasn't my 1st or there may not have been a 2nd.

As a first-time (half) marathoner, this couldn't have been a more challenging course. It's hills and more hills most of the way. I actually enjoyed the desert and, of course, the canyon views. For the half-marathoner, you will see the canyon at mile 10. My main criticism is that they need more water/Gatorade stops. For that environment, every mile would be perfect. Also, there should be free fresh fruit and drink (cold drink) aplenty at the finish. Still, I am so glad that I had the experience. Making just a few changes could make this a GREAT race. By the way, the school bus - even though it was donated by the tribe and I thank them for that - was not what I had been told that I was paying for. Charter buses for all! Including the tribes-people who raced. Do it right and you have a winner.

My short description of this marathon: very expensive, very scenic and very demanding, with a team of excellent volunteers. This was my 22nd marathon and I must have hit the wall too many times - I got my worst time ever - 4:18 vs. my average of 3:30. May I offer a few suggestions to the organizers, for improvement of future events: 1. Remove the word 'flat' from the description of the course, 2. Reverse the course so that the two steep hills at miles 21 and 23 will appear at miles 3 and 4. Also, the final approach to the finish line would be slightly downhill, 3. Consider serving CHILLED drinks at watering stations. Lukewarm water or sport drinks served in the heat of the sunny day did not quench my thirst at all, 4. Post-race food might be a little more exotic (water + bananas + bagels did not represent the top of a post-marathon menu). I also would like to say 'thank you' to Bill Mills for his inspiration.

The toughest marathon run out of 17 so far. Great experience, although bad organization. The people were lovely and supportive. It is a wilderness run - be prepared. People should be stationed at areas where it is most likely to cheat. Lady with black shoulder-long hair, limping slightly - you have been observed cutting TWICE!!! This is a race for strong people only, mentally as well as physically! GREAT JOB Bert, Dick and 'Red Sox'!!!!!! Great opportunity for spectators to take a helicopter ride into the canyon! Thank you for inviting Billy Mills - it was an honor!

This was the worst marathon ever. I have to say this because number 1, it's the most expensive you'll ever encounter. They charge for everything. From $35 because everyone needs to take the bus, $10 & 25 for the race poster, and imagine finishing the race to find out that they have provided you with stale bagels, luke-warm water, and bananas that have been in the sun all day long. BUT they will happily provide you with all these Native Americans trying to make a buck by selling $2 bottles of cold soda, $5 Native-American tacos, etc. The buses cant go back for the 2-hour drive until everyone is off the course, so you are waiting on ASPHALT (it was over 90 degrees) until Lil' Miss Charity runner stopped snapping photos and actually ran. I was an HOUR off my goal pace. That could be contributed to by the lack of spectators, lack of gels on the course, lack of shade, and a course that IS NOT RELATIVLY FLAT! Do the Tucson Marathon of Valley of the Sun if you want an AZ marathon.

This was advertised as a flat course, but don't believe it. Run this race once for the experience and scenery. We stayed in Vegas and took a charter flight to the reservation. This is the only way to go unless you want to spend hours before and after the race on a bus.

I am a runner from North Carolina and would I would like to add to my comments concerning last year’s inaugural marathon. Frankly, I was amazed to find the negative remarks that I am seeing about this run. My experience was quite the opposite, and of my 30-something marathons so far, this was undoubtedly the most awe-inspiring. Sure, there were problems. All of the fluids and supplements had to be trucked in over that same route that we runners had to endure by bus. Spectators were few, but what does one expect in the middle of the wilderness? This is not the middle of Chicago, NYC, or Boston (thank goodness). Accommodations were some distance away. All of this is true, yet one gaze over the rim of the Grand Canyon made up for it all! In that one instant, we, who are truly runners, grasp the essence of our sport. Thank you Hualapai Indian Nation, thank you Billy Mills, and most especially thanks to all you volunteers for allowing us this awe-inspiring moment.

Last October, I happened to be at the Grand Canyon with 9 good friends to raft the Colorado River and spontaneously decided to run the marathon. Over the summer, I had been training for the Richmond Marathon ( It would have been my first- a 'something I have to do before I hit 40' goal). In September I injured my foot and had to rest for 8 weeks. I had just begun running again before I went on this trip. We were staying at the Hulapai lodge and I happened to see the flyers for the marathon. I felt compelled to do it- despite my lack of preparation. I had no experience and no expectations... I had no idea of what the expo was supposed to look like- or how much it should cost to register. Mr. Allison was incredibly supportive and helpful- as was his entire crew of volunteers. Logistically, it had to be a nightmare to do this so remotely with volunteer tribesmen who had never seen or done anything like this before. People complained about the transportation, but I came from the opposite direction and had to drive myself down the canyon. I would have gladly paid anything to not have had to drive that rocky, white knuckle road at 20 miles/ hour for 2.5 hours! My goal was to finish- again, no expectations other than to enjoy the experience. It was truly amazing! A runner commented negatively on being alone for miles... I will never forget running alone through the desert, mountains behind me and canyon in front of me and a herd of antelope along side of me or at mile 21 facing a huge hill and a giant bird coming from behind me gently coaxing me along- staying with me to the top- which rewarded me with the most beautiful views of the canyon I had seen all week. I loved seeing the random Indian families along the way... so supportive of this thing we were doing on their land. It was hot, and dusty and hilly- but I expected that based on where it was. I was prepared with a water pack and lots of gels. I never saw the website- so for me, there was no let downs. I ran it for the experience of being in the place. I have since run Hops in Tampa and Ocean Drive in NJ. My goal now is all 50 states. For me, I will continue to run for the experience of the place and go into each with little or no expectiations of the bells and whistles.

I have to disagree with the negative comments. There certainly are more positive comments about this event if you continue to read on through the pages. There were aid stations at every mile with plenty of water and sport drinks available. The aid stations were manned by supportive and friendly volunteers from the Kingman area service clubs. The logistics of this event had to be incredible for such a remote area. I aplaud the organization for their tremendous undertaking. If they are not marathoners as posted, they definatley must be Professional Organizers. The experience and expertise of the Arizona Road Runners was obvious. There was also plenty of bagels, bananas, oranges and water at the end. They also had the Hualapai Indians preparing food to purchase. I thought the price was reasonable after seeing how remote this beautiful area is and what it must have taken to get all of the runners and spectators there. The Rock N Roll Marathon in San Diego is $80.00 so they are right in the same price range. I hope that some of the previous negative comments will not deter any marathoner from participating in this incredible event. Great job to the staff and volunteers for a great event.

Last year's Grand Canyon Marathon was my fifth. I wanted to run in a special place for this special milestone. Since I am a Grand Canyon enthusiast - I hike the Southern rim trail several times per year - I felt that this marathon was perfect to mark my number 5. Well, it was more than I ever expected - MUCH MORE! More hills, more heat, more gravel, more desert, more blisters.... The website was misleading, the elevation was higher than originally advertised, the canyon was hardly in view, the assistance was non-existent, the temperature was very high, there was no shade, the course was largely gravel and the hills were killers. I am happy that I successfully completed this marathon, but I'm not sure if I'm crazy enough to do it again. This one is tough, not well organized and had little-to-no spectators. There were times that I was completely alone for miles. Although I will say it was spiritual - probably because I was almost dead - you can get a better high by hiking along the Southerh rim and staying at the Bright Angel Lodge. That is what I recommend! Enjoy the canyon for what it really is and don't kill yourself running through the desert that sits next to it! P.S. The $100 that you drop to run and park for this one could pay for one night at the lodge! Hiking is free!

This marathon was organized by non marathoners....and it showed. It appeared that too much effort went into 'selling' the marathon with a slick website. Advertised as 'relatively flat',running rim side of the canyon, 'Some people may be mildly affected by the course elevation.' The reality was a very difficult course that saw the canyon only twice, and widespread altitude sickness headaches just getting off the bus. Also, the website referred to the 'race expo' to be held in Kingman. The reality was, packet pick-up, and a $5 charge for a small poster that most races would give away. Geez, we would have stayed in Vegas if we'd known that would be the case. The entry, transportation, and parking fees were ridiculously high....nearly triple most marathons. I feared for the people that needed medical attention due to the inadequate facilities (ie: an overheated victim of dehydration received an IV lying on the hot blacktop. Shade relief was a guy standing between the sun and the poor fella lying on the ground unconscious.) I've run many marathons, from small local races to the Boston Marathon, and have never seen such a failure to deliver. One has to wonder what the motivation was for a group of sports car rally enthusiasts to host a marathon. Nevertheles, if the host plans to attempt a second year of this marathon they would best serve the running community (and save themselves from this tone of feedback) by advertising the marathon in a forthright manner, and insuring runner safety with adequate facilities. Further, it needs a lot of input from experienced marathoners.

This was a ridiculously expensive marathon $85 entry and $35 for transportation to and from the start. Then to add insult to injury, they charged a parking fee in Kingman! There was virtually no food at the end of the race and no sports drinks. The area was pretty, but you only saw the canyon in two places.

The race definitely fell short of my expectations. The course was nothing like I had envisioned based on the 'graphic course map' on the official website. I mistakenly thought that I might actually be running within view of the Grand Canyon. In reality, the only places the course actually approached the canyon rim were at the 3 and 22 mile points. The majority of the race ran across relatively flat, featureless Arizona desert. I was also disappointed by the 10:00 am start time which was further magnified by the fact that the race actually didn't start until 10:35. Finally, my wife and I signed up for this race very early on and although I do recall the mention of a 2 hour bus ride, I do not recall any mention of an additional $35 fee for that ride. The whole package was outrageously expensive, especially considering the number of really great marathons available for 1/4 of the price.

This was an awesome course to run....and then to tell someone you ran in the Grand Canyon....even better. Don't be fooled by the brochures and the web site. While you do run around the rim, you actually have to run app. 200 yards to get a view. You only run by the rim in two spots. The rest of the course is desert...not very fun at 2:00 in the afternoon. It is a tough course. It seems like just when you thought you were done inclining....think again....here is another incline. Also, the runners appeared to be somewhat rude. Don't try to cheer on a fellow runner....they will ignore you and point their nose to the sky:) I am glad that I experienced the inaugral Grand Canyon Marathon but it will be my last.

A real first timers marathon, tons of walkers in the Half marathon, bring your own food for the finish, take a camera. The friendliest marathon I have run, a journey a spirtitual oasis, put this one on your list of must, the altitude does slow you down but your there for nature not time. Take the helicopter down to the colorado river after the race. Meet up with your best friends from around the country and plan this one together. You will have spiritual chills at the start during the Indian prayer.

This is a fairly tough marathon if you are a first timer, but the magic of running along and near the West rim of the Grand Canyon makes it a worthwhile experience. The course is not flat but rather like an out and back course with a long moderate incline going out and a comfortable decline coming back except for the little incline at mile 21, thanks for the suprise!!!!. It was enjoyable running past the runners on the way out and back from both the half and full marathon, they made up for the lack of spectators.You must take a camera with you. The organizers need to be complimented in handling the logistics of bussing everyone to this remote area. The Hualapai indians were extremely gracious-thankyou for allowing all us runners to share this remote area of the rim. I will forever remember this marathon, my 80th. The medal is neat but it would have been great if the first 3 in each age group received an award. We also took the helicopter flight to the bottom of the canyon after the race-what an experience. I would recommend this marathon.

My husband has been working towards his 50 states and this was his 31st - by far one of the best we've been to! The course is a bit tough (some challenging hills) but absolutely rewarding thanks to the fantastic views of the Grand Canyon that reward you after each tough climb. The race organizers did a fantastic job of making a remote location spectator and runner friendly -with food, drinks, Hualapai crafts to purchase, helicopter rides, and great support. The bus trip seemed like it would be a drag but was comfortable and pleasant. I couldn't believe how many times we were offered Clif Gels and Clif Bars on the course - support was awesome! Thanks to the Hualapai for letting everyone share their great land.

With only 4 states to go to complete the 50 state tour, this has tied with Montanna for my most scenic. UNREAL! I am so grateful and honored to have done this one! What a way to see the Grand Canyon for the first time. 3 years in the making for this & it was very well done. Hopefully Roger Allison, race director, can get some sponsors back he lost due to 9/11. He deserves a lot of praise for what he & his staff & volunteers pulled off! Take a hand held camera on this one. You WILL NOT be disappointed.

A real unique and a destination place to have a race. The views and vistas along the race course are well worth the long bus trip in. The race is a must for first time canyon viewers. The race staff did an outstanding job for a 1st marathon and deserve high marks for putting on a great race. The added surprise of having Billy Mills at the awards with pictures and his taking the time to chat with the runners was first class.

This was a lifetime experience. The views were spectacular. Transportation logistics were complicated due to the uniqueness of the location, but flawlessly organized. The Hualapai Indian Nation protects these sacred grounds and does not let a bunch of people drive their cars into this beautyful place, so we all had to be bussed in and out. Definitely worth the trip, after all, one of the 7 natural wonders in the World. INCREDIBLE!

I have no doubt that the first annual Grand Canyon International Marathon will be gorgeous. But rarely have I seen a race so intent on squeezing bucks out of the participants. The early entry fee is a whopping $85, and the late fee is an astounding $100. But that's not all you'll be paying-- no sir! The race's Web site notes that your 'entry fee does not include... transportation to and from the race site or parking fees at the shuttle bus location.' They're not letting any cars drive to the race site, so you'll have to park 35 miles away and take a bus in-- and they'll be charging you extra money for both parking and the bus ride. Wanna bring a friend to cheer you on? Well, only 1,000 spectators will be permitted to show up, and each spectator must preregister with the race AND pay an 'admittance fee' as well. And I have to assume that the admittance fee does not cover the bus ride to the start. This ranks right up there among the most outrageous gougings of the running community I have ever seen.