Marathon 2 Marathon

As noted, this was my first time to run this race and enjoyed the whole weekend tremendously. This race really matters to this small town and you could really tell their hearts and minds were into it! I frequently train alone so knew what running a lonely West Texas highway would be like, but enjoyed the scenery more than expected. Like most marathons, the view from the ground is more personal, special. Organization was solid, despite a record number of entrants. We stayed at the Marathon Motel & RV Park. Weather and food were great. No need to leave town. Spectators were phenomenal -- when there were some, hence the 2 -- but that was to be expected. Only regret was being a slow marathoner the free beer was gone and the lunch pickings a little thin by the time I got there.

This is the most fun I have had at any race of any distance. With a small town and fairly small race, my children were able to run around and play without my wife having to worry about them getting lost in a crowd. The water stations were perfect. The race people very friendly. The course was beautiful. There was not a building in site until mile 25. I would highly suggest this race to anyone. Sure you don't get a lot of stuff in your race bag, but whole doesn't already have tons of that junk already anyways?

The finish line was a truly positive experience because of spectator cheering and excitement. Fantastic food at the finish line where runners ate at the tables and could encourage others crossing the line. Ambulance availability was constant because it was mobile throughout the race cruising the length of the course (it seemed like more than one ambulance even). Hwy patrol cars also cruising the course and monitoring safety. Some confusion about the van/bus transport from Gage Hotel to start line(s). Race director should have taken a megaphone and assured runners that everyone will get on a bus to start line even if it's standing room only. Please state on the web site that packet pick-up is possible on race day morning as well as night before. For those of us driving in that morning it was a question mark leading up to race day starting moments. The awards ceremony and after-party were pretty cozy.