Center of the Nation Marathon - North Dakota

I had not participated in these 5 straight day marathon events before as believing it did not portray what a marathon is supposed to be. However, I was pleasantly surprised by how much I enjoyed it even though the weather was not great. Yes, the multiple out and back loops (12) made it monotonous but the lakeside location was nice. Yes, no spectators but as the runners passed each other many times it was supportive and fun. Organization was flawless. They sent out an email with explicit direction to the start. Run was located where everyone could park right at the start/finish area. Plenty of restrooms at the start and on the course. Great advantage was the aid station at the start/turnaround was fully stocked with anything you might want with a great food spread. You also had your vehicle right there to change clothes or get something which a number of people took advantage of given the changing weather conditions as it went along. The course was slightly uphill one direction and down the other of course, but more importantly the road was in great condition with no outside traffic. Given there was no time limit made for a low stress run for slower/older/injured runners many of whom probably supported running for many years before. I was glad to see events that allow them to continue to participate. I doubt that I will ever do daily multiple marathons myself but I now can see the attraction of these events and likely participate in the future.