Rursee Marathon

This is a small race that seems to maintain about 500 entrants. Most participants are local running clubs. The organization for a race this size is excellent. The race is held on a weekend that includes races from 5k to marathon, mountain bike treks and racing, kid runs and guided hikes through the hills. The course is a mix of dirt roads and trails. Expect some mud. Short stretches are very steep requiring you to walk single file. The toughest hill is late - at mile 23. Overall the course is harder than the overall profile implies. Throughout the race you are in pretty woods with nice views of the lake. Spectators gather at the water stops which also have tea, cola, electrolyte, bananas, chocolate and other food. No gels on the course. Overall a great experience.

I loved this race. This was my 3rd full marathon and most difficult. The course was mostly on dirt trails large enough for one vehicle. Lots of sharp turns with steep hills throughout. The refreshments were frequent, about 7-8 points, and served warm tea and sparkling water. The last one at ~38-39k had beer and chocolate. The course ran around the breathtaking Rursee lake, one of the most beautiful places I have seen in Germany. For WWII buffs you can still military defensive works around the area. This was a small race. Fans and racers probalby didn't outnumber 1,200; however, the organization was excellent. Plenty of first aid people. Their was a fest area with running stuff sales, food, showers, music, and great beer. And because it was so small, I found my family right away and they were able to take some good pictures. Another advantage was we didn't have to worry about traffic, lodging, and the overall headache of doing a big city marathon.