Mohawk-Hudson River Marathon

Mohawk Hudson was close to the perfect Qualifier. I raced two Revel extreme downhills in the past year, but didn't come close. At M-H, I qualified by 10+ mins. The M-H course is rated downhill, but the first 14 miles are gently rolling with a net change of zero. The elevation kept my legs fresh for the second half. Almost all of the downhill hits in the next four miles, the middle miles when a Marathon can get monotonous. With that boost, the last eight miles raced by. Most of the course is on a well paved train trail so most elevation changes are gradual. A couple of downhills, though, are too sharp to provide max benefit. Several miles are on local roads and I had no trouble with traffic. Although I prefer urban Marathons, the changing leaves were near peak and still provided protection against the light drizzle and breeze. It was a beautiful country scene. There are a few vistas over the Mohawk and Hudson Rivers, but I'd still rate scenery a 4. It happened that 2024 weather was perfect for a BQ. Temps stayed in the 40s, the predicted rain remained a mist or light drizzle and the forecast breeze was just strong enough to provide some fresh air. Communication before the race was excellent. Same day registration was simple. Post-race massage was much appreciated. Sandwiches were generous.

Nice scenery and trails. Well organized with transportation, water, etc. My only complaint is the medal. It was so small it reminded my of a shirt logo. Charge an extra $10 and get bigger bling.

The organizers are very clear that one must finish within 6 hours. What they are less clear about is that slow runners should expect nothing at the end. The food is packed up and gone promptly at 6 hours. En route, one of the water stops was completely folded up, tables, everything in the truck when I went past at an under 6 hour pace. Fortunately others were open after that, but given the heat and humidity that was worrisome. If it takes you 5 hours or less to run a marathon, this is a lovely course.