San Juan Island Marathon

This was marathon # 57 for me and had to be one of the most beautiful courses I have run. Gave everything a 5 including 'spectators' as you have eagles flying overhead, deer wandering around you, orcas, and also run by a alpaca farm. Stayed at the host lodge and had a wonderful experience with everything.

I ran the marathon in 2016 and would rank this race as one of the top ten (of 85 for me) in terms of natural beauty. In some past years, runners saw whales along the course although I didn't get quite as lucky with nature. Regardless, the course was pretty the whole time. Some miles along the coast, some in the forest, and more than enough race support for the size of the race. I stayed at the host hotel which was also lovely and could not be closer to the finish. The race director and volunteers were all awesome and super supportive. Some of the best I've seen. While I did not take any, the post- race food also looked ample (I heard there was a burrito bar). We joined courses with the half marathon folks during the second half, but it was never overly crowded as it sometimes can be when courses merge. I am surprised this race didn't have more people- I traveled from the east coast for this, but would be tempted to return just for the fantastic people, course and beauty. This is a beautiful part of the country and the simplicity of this well-organized marathon allow the scenery to shine. While I concur the course was tough, the views made the hills worth the effort.

I only ran the half marathon but the course largely followed the same path. It was a beautiful course - through rolling countryside and even an alpaca farm! - but it was very hilly and I eavesdropped on the first few finishes (after the race) who said it was one of the hardest courses they had ever run. There was water and gatorade about every 2-3 miles and food at then end. However, in the weeks leading up to the race, I tried numerous times to contact the organizers for details about the course, etc. for my training (it was my first half) and no one responded which I was very frustrated by. No free t-shirt (you have to buy one) but you do get a medal at the end. One thing to note is that there are not many runners in the half (less than a hundred) and even less in the full (probably less than 20) so you're not running with a ton of support. Overall though, the run was a beautiful one and great for spending a lot of time with yourself and pushing yourself really hard on your own. I definitely had many pep-talks with myself and felt like I came out stronger.