Mid-South Races for Hope Marathon

I tell ya what! The simple fact that you can email or call the RD and he answers is AMAZING! This is a small town race that doesn't get all carried away with entry fees like most do. The start of the race was AWESOME! The RD prayed a blessing over everyone, and just before the National Anthem said we all know about Freedom of Speech...Butt whoopins are free to! Come to find out, he's a Veteran that did two Combat tours. The course is out and back and would you believe an aid station and port-o-potty every single mile! Access to indoor plumbing, locker rooms, and shower facilities post race as well! Did I mention that this race was $40? $40 and I got a sweet shirt, a big woodallion, and they fed me after the race with BBQ, Pizza, and deserts! I loved it! This is a race that you definitely have to put on the list at least once! You won't be disappointed!

It was a good race with decent support. Having run 30+ marathons in various states, I didn't expect to run on as many exposed highway shoulders with as much repulsive carrion, but that can be expected. What wasn't expected was the race PA stating that 'If you believe in Free Speech, I believe in a free butt whooping for anyone who doesn't salute the flag during the national anthem.' Subsequently, the race started with a prayer. As a person of Jewish faith, I did not feel comfortable and did not feel at ease. Threatening violence shouldn't be tolerated. Prayer would have been fine under different circumstances. I wouldn't recommend anyone run this race as a result.

This is small race in a small town. It's awesome that the cost is so low (only $40). The fee didn't even increase if you registered on race day! The low fee doesn't diminish the race. I got a nice cotton shirt with a tasteful logo and lunch after the race. I knew going in that the roads would not be closed. Most of them are lightly traveled, so it wasn't a big deal. I didn't enjoy running on the extremely canted shoulder for the mile on the highway, though. Overall, the course is pretty. Slightly rolling. Enough to break up the drudgery of a pancake flat route but not hilly enough to wear you out. My only major disappointment with the race was the race director. Starting the race with the national anthem is fine. Threatening to 'whoop' someone's butt if they took a knee isn't cool. I value my freedom and love my country because of it. If standing is compulsory, we're not free.