Salina Crossroads Marathon - Race Reviews

Highly recommend. This is by far the most runner friendly marathon of the 70 I have run. It is hard to believe that this marathon started in 2022, it has the feel and execution of a well established event. Great communication from registration through lining up in the corrals, to include a very informative runners guide. Plenty of lodging and restaurant options in Salina with some funs things to do in Salina. Parking was close, I bet over 90% of participants were parked within ¼ mile of start/finish line, I arrived an hour early and was within 100 yards. Weather this year wasn't optimal (rain with thunderstorms forecasted). Race director must have developed an ulcer over the decision to let us out on the course or he had better weather intel because I thought for sure we were in for some more severe rain with lightning about two hours into the run. Rained throughout and I think I heard thunder, but never saw any lightning flashes. Volunteers did a yeoman's job of supporting the runners with smiles and cheers in less than ideal conditions. Fortunately, this was the first year of all paved race route because I saw some the previous trail section looked pretty sloppy with mud/puddles. Plentiful and well stocked aid stations (water/Gatorade, gels, fruit pickle juice).

Nice mid-sized race. I did well here, but a bit more challenging than advertised. The course has its own Heartbreak Hill. I love training on soft surfaces, but not racing on them, and this course includes some long stretches of them. Organizers were responsive before the race and volunteers were great. Could've used a few more on the second go-round of full-marathon, as there were a couple of times where there was no one to follow. Have larger signs and more substantial arrows. Would prefer a chip time list rather than gun time. Parking was incredibly easy!

The race organizers are clearly veteran runners as attention to every detail was paid. The course is a double loop with a few turn arounds inside of parks that made the course go by quickly. Ample aid stations with terrific volunteers. The course was staffed with friendly marshals. There were more spectators than anticipated. A great experience.

The organization of this marathon rivals much larger city marathons. Great sideline support from local groups; pre-race street entertainment; good hydration stations; excellent communication; great entertainment pre and post race. Plenty to look at along the course - some very pretty parks.

This inaugural marathon was a homerun! Excellent communication with the race director, good course, and easy logistics. Host motel was right at the start/finish line and also served as the expo. Probably the friendliest volunteers I have seen on a marathon. The marathon is two loops and there is a good climb to a hill around mile 6. Course goes through some neighborhoods. and parks. Plenty of water stops with Gu shots as well. The finish was nice with a live band and even hamburgers from a local restaurant that was named as best hamburger in Kansas. Nice shirt and the medal was made in Salina Kansas. It should be noted if you are flying into Salina, the local airport only gets flights from Denver and Chicago on United. There are also several nice restaurants in town. I highly recommend this race!

I cannot say enough good things about this race. The organization was stellar! In my 45+ marathons, this one is at the top. Great swag, incredible volunteers, plentiful and well stocked aid stations, and easy, close parking! Amazing since all the profits went to charity! The course was flat and fast and the weather was perfect. Thank you Salina, job exceptionally well done!