Providence Marathon

Plenty of manned fluid stops but served up in the cups that used to be used at the dentist office. Maybe 2 ounces? Electrolyte drinks mixed differently at each table. Some were fully concentrated without water added and undrinkable, some were diluted correctly. Course was ok. Only 1 timing mat on the course at about mile 12.7. I wish we did not have to run some of the race on the shoulder of a bridge. The course was well marked. Had an hour early start which is nice. Course stayed opened longer than announced. Medal is nice. Good beer at finish but not a lot of nutritional goodies unless you had money for the food trucks. Nice hoodie. Hotels were conveniently located to walk to start. Food in Providence is excellent. Just needs some slight fixes to make it a better race.

I'll echo earlier comments, because this was still being advertised as 'our flat & smooth course'... rest assured, it is rolling hills, particularly in the front section of the course (so the front end and the back end of the full marathon course). That said, the organization is very good... really not an expo to speak of, just a simple bib pick up... very nice heavy duty hoodie too. The course is mostly nice in Providence, but the best part is the bike trail section, residential areas, and the fabulous views of Narragansett Bay. Other parts not as scenic, but you don't expect it to all be... some shoulder of the highway stuff and industrial area stuff thrown in. Pleasant surprise was the number of spectators out!! Very enthusiastic, and the water stops were all good. It was hot this year (obviously nothing organizers can do about that). Providence is a lovely place to visit!!!

As other reviews have stated, the course is not FLAT flat. There are rolling hills, placed at some tough sections of the course (including near the end). However, the aid stations and the people manning them are FANTASTIC. Plenty of aid and plenty of friendly, cheering volunteers. Packet pick-up is easy and parking is conveniently located at the mall, right next to the start. Post-race was awesome, great beer choices. This past year was rainy so definitely a lack of spectators, but based on this course (and the half-marathon I've done in the past), plenty of the course is not spectator-friendly anyways.