WhistleStop Marathon

About 90% of my running is on asphalt so I was a bit apprehensive after reading the reviews of the trail but I had no problems with it. I had to be a little careful to find the ideal footing in some spots but no different than dodging potholes or other runners in a big city marathon. The course feels flat but is actually a steady decline which helped me PR and BQ. The race was well organized with buses taking us to the start where there were ample portajohns and the local bar let us in to hang out and keep warm. There were aid stations every few miles and the finish was well stocked with food and volunteers checking on your condition as you recovered, something you won't find in a big marathon. I really enjoyed this marathon and hope to do it again sometime.

Trail is very flat, but remember to wear a pair of thick sole shoe cause many small stones and on the trail and the surface is not smooth. I got my PR after Chicago (that is 6 days before). The organization could be improved. I talked with race director and believe she will make changes in the future. Spectators are few, the reason I can understand. But the after race party is great, good city with good people. I booked Airbnb in the city, then make the race more convenient.

Flat scenic course, very well organized, very helpful and friendly community. I would highly highly recommend doing a good portion of your training on gravel or trail because this gravel trail will wreck you if you are not prepared for it. It was very hard to find a good hard packed line to run....mix in some very soft and sandy sections and gravel and it can be tough on your body. It's a great race if you are prepared for the instability of the running surface... I learned the hard way that this course is no joke.