Arkansas Marathon

This race was very well-organized and run by friendly staff and volunteers. The web site is easy to navigate and has all the key info. I never needed to contact the race director with any questions. Packet picket on race morning was easy breezy; it literally took 30 seconds. They started us on time just at daylight. I loved the low-key, uncrowded start, and the different distances started 10 minutes apart. The course was out and back on a two lane highway with small shoulders. There was a fair amount of traffic but lots of law enforcement and signage alerting drivers to runners on the road. Parts of the course were well-shaded, and parts were full sun, but there were plenty of aid stations - nearly every mile. I was impressed that they had 3 different flavors of Gatorade, and the volunteers were great about finding out what you needed as you approached and having it ready for you. The roving aid station vehicle was also a really nice touch! The hills were not as bad as I expected. They were long but not particularly steep. Views were not all that spectacular, but I don't mind rural routes. The finish line was in the middle of the October Daze festival downtown which added excitement. I was handed cold water and a cold towel along with a large, beautiful finisher's medal and an additional first place medal. They had pizza, beer, coffee, fruit, and chocolate milk for post-race refreshments and were offering rides to a nearby church to shower. This event had all the amenities of a big city race (and more personal touch) but without all the hassles.

This is a great small town marathon in a beautiful part of the country. It's a very beautiful, rugged, mountainous area. The race is no frills which add to its character. The people, food, hospitality, organization, volenteers and other runners are great. So is the course. There are some monster hills on it so be in shape. It's a road course which is marshalled but open to traffic so be alert to what you are doing at all times. Having Miss Arkansas at the finish was a pleasant surprise.

This was a race with good course. I was concerned about traffic on Hwy, but felt course was well marked for motorist to be aware of runners. A little bit earlier start would help with heat and traffic. BLING! It was great! I plan to return for the 50th! People were friendly and encouraging. I am a speed walker and completed the half marathon.