B&A Trail Marathon - Race Reviews

An update to my comments of April 4, 2019: E-mail sent out by the organizers said 'A very well-meaning volunteer gave a bad course direction. We immediately recognized it and made some "on the fly" adjustments to the course based upon some very fast calculations, we were confident at the time that every runner ran a full 26.2 miles. However we needed to re-certify the course to validate the results.' Another e-mail was sent by the organizers a day or two later stating 'I am thrilled to report your times count "AS-IS" no time adjustments necessary. Our mid-race change was long enough (just). And we are certified without qualifications or exceptions.' A PDF copy of the approval letter was attached to the e-mail. Quick action by the organizers. They are a class act.

This was my 5th B&A trail marathon. I love it because it's local, flat (relatively) and well organized (usually). The weather can be unpredictable but usually is good for running a marathon. I've BQ'd twice there. This year I was disappointed though. There was a lack of course marshals and/or timing mats that afforded the opportunity for cutting several minutes off one's time by accident or, if so inclined, on purpose. Also, as a matter of principle, at least put the correct date on the shirt rather than last year's date.

This was my 11th running of this race. Most years have been pretty good, but I have to ask why would a race have last year's date on the shirt, especially after charging a significant amount to enter. In year's past some great swag was given. A really nice running bag one year. Very nice running pants or heavy duty shirt or a vest in other years in addition to the race shirt. Unfortunately at their mile 1 marker my GPS read 0.64 as did several other runners near me. Someone familiar with the course said the elite runners missed a turn in the first mile. Apparently no one was stationed at the turn to direct them. Maybe they were short on volunteers. I empathize however making turns going through town are very important. To their credit it appears that the organizers mostly corrected for the error by adding distance at the first turn around and possibly else where in the race since my GPS watch ended with 26.22 miles. GPS watches are not perfect though and I have seen mine occasionally add distance in other races. Another complaint I have is that this race has gone back to having you tie your chip to your shoe. Not a big burden, but most race nowadays have a strip on your bib number. I assume this is a cost saving activity, but given the great swag they used to give out what happened to all the registration fee dollars collected this year? I don't want to be overly disparaging. You will never find a nicer pre-race staging area. The new high school is beautiful and has plenty of room in the cafeteria to prepare for the race. You just walk out the door and a couple of hundred feet to the start line. There is loads of parking available as well as food and drink after the race. Seeing all the Naval Academy students that come out to run the race is very inspiring. In spite of my grumbling I will be back next year. It really is a nice size with a pretty nice course even if a bit boring at times. And I don't need lots of folks cheering me on. It's just nice to see a few smiling faces and encouraging volunteers at the aid stations of which there were plenty. The B&A volunteers are wonderful.

This was an average marathon but some issues did concern me and the cost was high to enter so you would expect these items to be a priority. The shirt had the wrong year on it, the course did not have enough water stations and the mile markers were off for the majority of the race. However, if you need a marathon on your calendar this will work. I give is a solid grade of 'C+.'

I have never run a full marathon, but this is my third BA 1/2 marathon. The BA marathon and 1/2 marathon is a race like no other. It takes place on a beautiful paved, wooded, trail and is well organized. Tremendous effort has gone into to ensuring a successful race; but it is the extra touches by the race director, that makes this particular event, such a meaningful experience. The volunteer shirts are printed with 'Amazing Volunteers;' and they are amazing! They stand for hours at a time, regardless of weather conditions, ONLY to help others achieve their goals. The premium for this race, had a personalized quote from the President of the Annapolis Striders; reminding us to 'go for it.' We are the youngest that we will ever be for this race; Why wait? Considering my own hesitation, I asked him, 'Is it better to try and fail, than to not try at all?' He responded, 'If you try, you can't fail.' Everyone has different abilities, levels of training, and personal goals; but the one common denominator as we line up at the start of the B&A, is that we are all winners, before we begin.

One thing about Annapolis Striders is that they obviously care about the craft of putting on a quality race. I've done one other race and it was no different  well organized and ensures all the things one would expect from a 'big race' but with a friendlier community feel  and minus all the crowds and headaches with big races! I've trained a lot on the trail, so I knew the course. Yes, its pretty flat. There is some road noise, but overall a quiet course with a lot of woods and nature to look at. Also, its an open use trail, but I never felt too crowded, something I really don't like! Also, everyone on the trail was friendly too. I gave 'Spectators' five stars  there not many spectators. And while volunteers might be part of race organization, everyone I passed from the water stations to road crossings had smiles and words of encouragement. Everyone was great! The finish-line was well run, and the post-marathon food after-event amenities were great! The race medal was also a bottle opener, so I can put in in my kitchen drawer and use it, not just put it away will all the others I've collected over the years. Like I said, this may be a smaller event, but they really care about all the details in making this an experience to remember. If you have a chance to do this, don't pass it up!

B&A is a well-organized, low-key marathon. (Thank you, Annapolis Striders and volunteers!) The course is just how it's described on the website ... the majority of it is flat with one good-sized hill around mile 7 and some gently rolling hills. The latter miles are a little quiet. The weather ... what can I say? It's March, so expect anything. This year it was cold (wind chill in the 20s) but the first 7 mi were great. After that, the wind kicked up stayed around for the remainder of the race. I would recommend this marathon if you're looking for a small, peaceful marathon.

B&A is definitely a fast course! Great for a BQ (I did this year). One hill but nothing difficult then flat on a rails to trails course. Low key but very well organized. Race director does a great job and the volunteers are super. Great Spring Marathon.

A very good event, given the right conditions. 2014 featured terrible weather with a great deal of rain and strong winds. Standing water was ankle deep in a number of stretches. Despite this, it was still a good experience, and I ran my best marathon by 20 minutes. The race is low key, well organized, and the course is reasonable. Aid stations are well stocked, volunteers friendly and helpful.

This marathon is a definite PR course if you don't have to deal with monsoon weather conditions in late March . The course is pancake flat except one hill at the mile 7 area and some small rises near the wooden bridges that you cross. Not very pretty but it is an old rail to trails course so you know you want have to run on any concrete. I would love to run this race when the weather was perfect. Unfortunately it rained the entire weekend of the race. The volunteers at the aid stations were totally awesome. Not many spectators out on the course since they would have been in ankle deep water. I grabbed a piece of Papa Johns pizza from the post-race food table. I normally just drink chocolate milk after a marathon and went to Food Lion down the street for that after the race. The race shirt was a totally awesome long sleeve turtle neck shirt. It is the best shirt I have ever received. I will be able to wear it everywhere when it is cold. Medal was small and had a misspelled word on it (should read Annapolis Striders instead of Annapolis Stridres. The packet pickup was easy at the high school. Having showers at the end was a God send after being in the pouring rain for 4 ½ hours with temperatures around 42. Some suggestions for runners of future B&A Trail Runners: I would recommend staying at the Spring Hill Suites in Annapolis off exit 22. It was nice and about 9 miles from the race. Get to the race early. Parking is limited and only had 4 port potties. You could also use the bathrooms inside but it was crowded. For out of town people, take advantage of the hot showers at the end. In summary, as I am now over 1/5 through the 50 State quest, I am glad I ran this one for the Maryland Marathon.

This is a race put on by runners for runners and it really showed this year. Between the rain, wind and cold weather, it was a challenging day. I ran the half and found it tough going. But the logistics were almost flawless, with volunteers where they were supposed to be, clear mile posts, and a fully stocked finish line. Its races like this that show the true commitment of the organizers. Pros: 1. Waiting inside the high school! Warmth, and flush toilets. It was also a welcome place to come in out of the rain after the race. 2. Great swag. The Annapolis Striders always manage great premiums for a relatively inexpensive race. This year it was a nice pullover. Cons: 1. I don't get the lack of bag check. I guess its a security thing, post-Boston bombing, but I've run other races since that did have a bag check. There was ample parking at the school but it was annoying to run back and forth to my car in the rain. 2. Few spectators. Of course this year I was amazed that anyone came out given the conditions  thanks spectators!  but even in good weather this race has few people on the sidelines. I don't mind that, but if a lot of cheering is your thing, this isn't the race for you.

The Annapolis Striders put on a great marathon. The course is flat and mostly on the B & A Rail Trail. It is well supported with enthusiastic volunteers. It started and finished at an LA fitness gym, so hot showers and nice locker rooms were a big plus. This is a great early marathon if you don't prefer lots of spectators and other runners. I got another BQ too.

I ran the 2013 race. The logistics of this race are super easy. There are plenty of hotels in the Arundel Mills area, a few miles from the start. We stayed at the Aloft, which allows pets. It was the first time my Pomeranian could join us on a marathon trip. The packet pick up at the running store on Friday was easy, in and out in 5 minutes. Parking at the race start on Saturday at the LA Fitness was was ample and free. About 90% of the course was on the paved bike path, which is generally flat and fast. The first 5 miles were somewhat congested but not too crazy. The race organizers limit the number of runners to a few hundred. It would be wise to bring a Nathan water belt as there are not very many water stations. The stations were, however, well staffed and well stocked with water, Gatorade and GU. Volunteers were very friendly and supportive. Thank you! I recommend this race to experienced marathon runners who don't need big crowds, expos or spectators. The hot shower at the end of the race is a BIG plus! Thank you Striders for a great race experience!

The course, support and organization of the race were great for the size of field, and are a tribute to the folks in that area. the volunteers late in the race were Great!! While not my best performance day (didn't get my finishers medal yet - but still hopeful it will be sent), I would recommend this run to anyone.

This was my 50th Marathon and 32nd state so I've seen good and some bad. This was a well-run race, the team has good experience and is well organized at the important stuff. I did the early start (had an early flight) and even though I was the first to go thru the water stops the crews did great. The showers are a nice touch and greatly appreciated. I also enjoyed getting the pants instead of the shirt (already got a closet full of those). I recommend this race to everyone!

I ran the 2012 race for my Maryland race and I feel I chose well. This was a nice, small (1000 runners; 329 did the full marathon) race. There is lot's to like about this race. I was able to pick up the race packet race morning. The race begins and ends at a high school so you can warm-up indoors and use real bathrooms. After a mile and a half running on roads to spread the field out a little the rest of the race is on a paved 'rails to trails' bike path. It is a flat course with only one real hill to speak of that we hit at mile 7. The scenery along the way doesn't really change but it is always pleasant. There are plenty of aid stations (in fact more than the web site promised); They all had gatorade and many on the second half had orange slices and pretzels. I did not see any gels but since I brought my own perhaps I missed them. I'm a slow runner who had a bad day but the volunteers remained out on course till the end. Thanks! They had a nice medal and gave out nice running pants rather than a shirt. I also enjoyed the post-race massage. I didn't use them but showers from the school were made available post-race. This race was run by the Annapolis Striders running club and my experience with races run by local running clubs has always been great. They certainly understand a runner's needs and the 'local flavor' is a nice touch. You can't do wrong if you decide to run this race.

I am starting to work on the 50 state marathon challenge and have heard many great things about this race and wanted to avoid the hilly Baltimore race so I choose B&A for my maryland race. First, this is not a regular trail race. The entire race is on paved surfaces. It's not a huge race and there are stretches with no spectator support. However, the trail is scenic and there are distractions to keep you occupied as you run. Instead of a shirt, the organizers gave out a nice pair of jogging pants. The fee is very low for a marathon. Very nice water stations (the one located at the 18/20 mile mark did run out of cups between my first and second passing) with nice sweet treats during the 2nd half. Like most half marathon/marathon races, the half marathoners did a good job on the post-race refreshment area but there was still plenty of food left when I finished. The showers were luke warm at best but most races don't provide showers anyways. Overall, I am very happy with the nice flat course. I had my 2nd fastest time. Very small hills except for the one around mile 7 but that did not last long. Highly recommended.

This is a very well organized event. The course was fairly flat and I enjoyed being on a bike trail instead of another tour of a city. Only one hill and it comes early and is not real significant. If you are a 50 stater I can't think of a better marathon to do in Maryland than this one. I was at the Baltimore marathon last October and B & A Trail Marathon beats it hands down.

This marathon was a great experience with lots of positives: - well organized / easy logistics - awesome volunteers - Coke at aid stations - track pants instead of a shirt - enthusiastic spectators - flat course - warm school to hang out in before and after the race with showers available afterwards - nice food selection at the end, including pizza - bargain price for all you get - early start available if needed - packet pick up on race morning - friendly runners - nice medal Cons: - the headwind ( not controllable) Overall, a really fun event that takes good care of the runners and is well worth running! Do not miss!!

First marathon I have run that I have zero complaints about. Great organization, easy packet pick-up, nice scenic course, awesome volunteers, plenty of aid stations with lots of goodies, lots of post race food including hot pizza, post race showers, free massages, and they announced my name at the finish line!! I loved every part of this race, and you can't beat the price!!

I ran the half. If you don't need large cheering crowds and changes of scenery, this is a fun little race. It was well-organized, logistics were easy, great swag (track pants!), the in-door availability of a large high school was great and it was a very pretty, quiet course. I have only one criticism. The map doesn't have an elevation chart but says that it is a flat course with a hill at mile 7. Actually, mile 7 starts with a pretty significant hill but it is followed by two miles of an incline. Had I known I would be running for three miles uphill, I would have paced differently.

This was my first B&A Trail Marathon. I have run more than a dozen marathons, mostly in the past two years and this one is by far my favorite. I arrived about 40 minutes prior to the start and found parking behind the school. Packet pick-up was quick and well organized. My favorite part of the race was the gear drop off at mile 3. I didn't use it at 3 miles but dropped my jacket and other items on the return trip and the volunteers bagged it and marked it and I retrieved my stuff at the post race awards area. I was energized by the volunteers at every aid station. This was the friendliest bunch of volunteers I have ever encountered at a race. The volunteers really kept me pumped up during the final 13 miles. The police officers were great and even took time to offer encouragement as well. My thanks go out to all the volunteers, support staff, police and anyone else who had a part in this great event. I will be back and I will recommend this race to others. Semper Fi!

I really, really wanted to run a BQ in this race and needed a 3:20. But....my training wasn't the best and I wound up hitting the wall at 20 miles and finishing in 3:35 in the rainy and windy 2011 race. But....who cares? There will be other opportunities to run a BQ. This race is everything that others have commented about. Cheap, well-organized, low-key, flat, fast, great and enthusiastic spectators, though few. It does get lonely after the halfers peel off and the overpasses on the last miles seem like mountains. But you can shower in the locker room at the high school afterwards. The lady with the sign 'just keep running' at mile 24 kept me going. The hat and medal rock and the tech shirt is a keeper. For me, this is close to home and cheap, a real no-brainer. But I would recommend it to anyone who wants a fast, flat course and doesn't mind low-key. I would do it again.

Having never been to Annapolis, we really enjoyed our visit and would recommend anyone check it out - marathon or not. Because I typically run on a similar rail trail, the course was nothing special for me, though I think because it's relatively flat, and it's a good one on which to post a good time. The organization was great and the volunteers were out of this world. Special thanks to the guy with the orange slices who ran after me near mile 19 to hand me one after I had fumbled my grab at a slice. Like others, I also wondered about the length of the mile near the end when we briefly went off the trail. Unlike other posters, I don't have a Garmin, but my watch said my last four miles were 8:45, 10:25, 8:52, 8:43. Just didn't seem that the third-to-the-last one was much slower than the other three. But since I wasn't on the cusp of PR anyhow, that was a minor issue. It still was a fun race.

I've done this race four times and loved it every year. It's not the most scenic course, and crowd support is sparse. But it's very well-organized, and there are lots of goodies for the low registration price. I would highly recommend it for anyone looking for a low-key, early-spring marathon. My one caution is that the course should be a PR course, but I've never run that fast mostly because the weather tends to be iffy (as it was this year). My one beef is what the previous reviewer had said:  I think the course was mis-measured this year. I'm used to having Garmin readings being a little off due to zig-zagging and the imprecision of the watch. Still, the readings were dead-on accurate for every mile except mile 23, when the race veers off the trail for a half mile. I also got a reading for mile 23-24 that was about 1/4-mile longer than it should have been. I hope the organizers will remeasure this stretch and let all of us know what happened.

Parking - Great. Had no problems during the packet pick-up on Saturday or on race day. Was able to park in a side parking lot, which was close enough so that I could leave stuff in and feel comfortable that I could pick it up quickly if I changed my mind and decided I needed it last-minute. Packet Pick-Up - Very easy. Parking was good. Pick-up was quick. Very nice, premium, long-sleeve, Under Armour shirt. We also received hats and pins at the finish. Great value for the price!!!! Course - Well, I ran a PR by 9 minutes, so I can't complain. I had friends run with me and I really needed their support during the 2nd half since the majority of the runners turn off after the half. It is a paved, flat path with 1 appreciable hill at mile 7. It looked worse running down it; then when you turn to run up, you realize it isn't bad. I had no issues with crowdedness on the course. Runner were very supportive and cheering each other along the way. The only problem with the course was that my Garmin registered 26.48 miles. I still ran a PR but I can only imagine it without the extra .28 miles added! This was my only frustration since there were plenty of places where they could have corrected this on turn-arounds. Water Stops - Stellar. Loved the Mad Hatter/Alice in Wonderland-themed water stop. The weather was calling for rain and the volunteers couldn't have been more cheerful and supportive. They had great energy. Plenty of refreshments at each water stop. Plenty of food at the end. I had been concerned about this since I had read that the half marathoners ate all of the pizza in past years, but I had plenty of every type of food I desired at the end.

I really enjoyed the access to the school before and after the race. The surface ('soft' asphalt) is great, as were the volunteers (a large, supportive contingent!), and the food and beverages (lots!). The shirt is one of my favorites (low-key, yet cool). Way to go, B&A!!

I can't review this race w/o sending a shout out to the fantastic volunteers who made this event happen. Incredible job....y'all made the day! The course was a basic out and back on a long bike/running path with a couple short diversions into the neighborhoods. For the most part it was very flat with only one hill near mile 7, and it wasn't a hugely challenging hill. The weather in 2011 was very ugly with spitting on and off rain all morning and a headwind the last 7 miles. The weather and the course pretty much knocked out any spectators.....that's where the volunteers come in.The volunteers played the role of the enthusiastic crowd as well. Their morale and spirit as you went past the water stations and the road crossings was infectious. I looked forward to each stop when I saw how fired up the vols were. The check in (race day) was simple and being able to stay in the school (30 seconds from the start/finish) made the weather palatable. They had plenty port-a-johns at the start and on the course. Every water station was well spaced and well stocked with ample provisions from fruit, pretzels, Gatorade, and water. The post-race food spread was quite well put together and for a small race to have massage tables was a blessing. The tech shirt and medal were spot on. Having the school gym showers available after the race was a bonus. Last year a comment was made about IDing the early starters...they took the comment to heart and early starter bibs were a different color. I highly recommend this race to anyone looking to do a marathon in Maryland. Did I mention the outstanding volunteers?

I really enjoyed this race! The 2nd half is a bit lonely, so if you feel like you need company then sign up for this race with a friend. I was pretty much running alone and with no one in sight for a good portion of the last 13.1. The race fee is relatively low compared to other races and the swag is fantastic. This year they gave you a technical long-sleeve shirt, a pin and a gym bag! The race was well organized and I felt the volunteers were very helpful and prepared. The post-race food was great, the option to take a shower was fantastic, and the high school was a 30-second walk from the finish. I don't have one negative thing to say about this race other than I wish there was not an early start. During my first 13.1, I was slammed into by an early starter who was running on the wrong side of the path?!?! Everyone was dodging her - it was pretty ridiculous. I also had no idea what place I was in while running because the volunteers could not distinguish between an early starter and a regular runner. Other than that minor thing, I think this race is fantastic and would recommend it to anyone!

Half-marathoners outnumber marathoners by almost 3:1, so the race changes from crowded in the first half to desolate in the second. Great course, volunteers, and aid stations. My big complaint is that the pizza ran out for anyone who didn't finish under 4:30. I ran the half last year, and they marked everyone's bib to limit runners to one slice of pizza each; but apparently in 2010 it was a free-for-all. I was looking forward to the pizza (that I paid for!) in those last tough miles, and was very letdown when I found out it was gone. That left a bad taste in my mouth and I have no desire to do this race again.

Decided to run the half instead of the full because a harsh winter impacted my training. I was very pleased overall with the race. Small, but very well organized. Everyone helping out was very excited to be there. Scenic course, and I was impressed that they put forth the effort to remove the last patches of ice from the trail. Race is also very close to downtown Annapolis. This makes for a great little vacation weekend (which is what I did).

My comments mirror the others... this is a great race with great organization. I loved starting and ending at the school. Able to stay warm before and able to take a shower afterward. The volunteers even held my two large suitcases in bag check. It offered amazing goodies - a great tech shirt, a duffel bag, a pin, and a medal. There was loads of food afterward (but I missed out on the pizza). Annapolis is a great city. Flying in and out of Baltimore was so easy and cheap. The course is flat, but hills around mile 7 and mile 18. The course is fairly scenic, with some really pretty scenery scattered throughout. The second half was not as pretty as the first half. I was worried about congestion with the up-and-back on a single trail, plus the half mixed with the full, plus the potential for other users on the trail. No worries. Well stocked water stops; I wish there had been more, but I was prepared. I would definitely recommend this race, especially if anyone is looking for a Maryland race.

This was a very high-quality race that really caters to the runners (put on by runners and it shows). The cost is great, and the swag was awesome, but even better was the overall organization. Having the start/finish at the school with plenty of parking and warmth to wait in before the start is an awesome idea. The aid stations on the course were well stocked (but like most small runs the volunteers need a little more training). The course was actually a lot of fun for me, flat but with a bit of challenges on the rollers, especially in the second half. The finish line celebration was great (food, showers, timely awards, etc.). Finally, the RD and volunteers were top-notch! A great destination race for anyone!

This was my 50th marathon overall and my 40th state. I have to say that this is a great, small race, and I highly recommend it. Great organization; the race director responded to e-mails. A big concern for me was a shower afterward (before jumping on flight home). She made it happen, and even brought towels! Packet pick-up was a snap. The early start was nice, very organized. The gym was open so we could stay warm prior to the start. Great price for the amenities, sturdy gym bag, tech shirt and awesome medal! Relatively flat course but had some icy sections - no fault of the organization. Volunteers are some of the best I have ever seen; kudos to them as well. Only complaints: 1. Not enough aid stations, although the ones they had were well stocked with water, Gatorade, Coke, pretzels, oranges, Swedish Fish, etc. 2. I didn't see any medical assistance on the course, but it is possible that I missed them. 3. I heard there was pizza at the finish, but it was gone when I finished. However, there was plenty of soda, chips, bagels and oranges left. There was a problem with my finishing time, but the race director investigated and quickly resolved the issue. I highly recommend this marathon to anyone, whether you are a 50-Stater, Marathon Maniac or a first-timer. I plan to return in the future!

The star count is sort of low... you run on a paved rails to trail. If you like that sort of thing, this is a GREAT course. Even if you don't like that type of course (I don't like marathons run on paths), this is an excellent event, even if just an OK course. This race is in a wonderful destination run! Annapolis is so much fun, and Baltimore isn't bad either! Great food and great sightseeing alone would make this a great trip... but then a smaller race with a low entry price sweetens the deal! But wait! There's more! You get some of the best swag of any race at any price of any size!!! I mean, we got a great travel bag, complete with a removable computer sleeve in it! We got a great, long-sleeve, tech shirt and dandy finisher's medal... but that's not all! We got a finisher's pin. I collect race pins and never expected a small race to have a pin. Somehow (very sadly, I might add), I lost my pin already. I put on my board at work and took it off to show somebody... and poof! I lost it! I might have to beg for a new one. I truly loved the swag, and the event. I did not like the course that much; the second half may be flat, but it seemed to go on forever! I see why everybody runs the half. The two races run along together until just about mile 13, and the half IS the signature race here. But alas, I am a marathon freak and can't pass up the longer runs... This race had race-morning packet pickup - great for people running doubles - and had race morning expo for people that thought that it was going to be cold and windy. Grab some shorts! The rest stops were fun and fully stocked - almost like an ultra they had so much food and soda. You never see soda other than in an ultra. A complete event. Pre-race you were in the school - a nice, dry, warm school. The race was even chip timed! Warm food afterward, good awards, great swag, cheap price, great location, easy to get to... a darn near perfect event! I can see why it sold out this year. I'm not sure why it doesn't sell out every year! If you need Maryland, or want a nice March run, this may be your race! Plus next year is the 20th anniversary and should be even more special... if that is even possible. So sign up early if you want to try a nice, small event in a great location for an excellent price!

I ran the half marathon and it was a great experience. The expo/packet pickup was very fast (5 minutes tops). On race day, the school was open for runners to stay warm in and use the bathrooms. The race itself is flat with the exception of the turnaround point (mile 6-7), which had a small hill section. If you are looking for big crowds, look elsewhere. Everyone was very friendly - race organizers, volunteers and the other runners. I would run it again and would consider running the marathon.

This is an excellent small race. The course is relatively flat, with gradual ups and downs on the rail trail. There is one signficant hill at one end of the route, going down at about mile 6 and coming up at mile 7. Excellent organization. We got a great gym bag with a beautiful race logo on it, along with the race shirt, a lovely medal, and all of the other amenities you could want. Donna, the race director, is great. The weather was nearly perfect, starting in the low 30's and rising to the low 50's, but with a nice breeze to keep you cool enough. Some snow remained in the woods from the record snows this area has had, but only a couple of spots had a little water and ice runoff - nothing to worry about (I just slowed down for a few steps to be careful). This was my 50th State and I ran with a couple of wonderful friends, and the entire event was amazing. I got recognized at the finish, including receiving a gift from the race director. The only improvements could have been a couple of more porta-cans early in the race, while the half marathoners were still with us, and larger mile markers or maybe a balloon on them so that they were more noticeable. I missed 3 or 4 along the way. Annapolis is a lovely area to visit, and hotels there are an easy 15 minutes away from the start/finish. The year 2011 marks this event's 20th anniversary, so I expect an even better race.