This is my favorite Marathon because of the beautiful scenery and wonderful people. Here are things that some people may not like: 75-80F temperatures, there are 2 loops, start in the dark at 5 a.m., splits at start/finish and 6.5/13.1 only, cars on the course (drivers are courteous), only 80+ full Marathoners (could get lonely). There were many nice aspects to the whole experience. This was my 2nd CI Marathon and 7th trip to Grand Cayman. The people are so nice and accommodating. The race had British efficiency and Caribbean hospitality. It was very well organized with helpful, cheerful people. The start/finish area was clean and well-stocked with refreshments. Shuttles took runners to and from hotels. Few fans were on the course, but energetic helpers were at the water stops every mile. There were sea breezes, swaying palms, and views of the Caribbean.  As Jimmy Buffett might say, come down to the little latitudes and run this race.

I had a fantastic experience and would highly recommend this race! I took a direct flight from New York and stayed at the Westin (great hotel) with my girlfriend, who ran the Half while I did the Full Marathon. The Westin hosted the expo and featured a marathon discount for the room (nice savings!). At the expo, enthusiastic volunteers distributed, among other things, really cool Cayman Marathon shirts and tank tops, which were great conversation starters the rest of the week on the beach. There was a free pasta dinner the night before the race including a free shuttle to and from the restaurant in Georgetown. On race day, yet another free shuttle (they came at staggered times) to the start line. The race started in complete darkness - it was a surreal experience - and remained dark for 90 minutes or so, until you could see the sun peak over the horizon. In reality, you probably only saw the ocean for 1/6 of the time, but the whole race has a warm, supportive island vibe to it. The medal is heavy and large and one of my favorites. Free shuttle back to the hotel circuit too. It did get hot once the sun started shining, but with the pre-dawn start time, I didn't get burnt or feel overheated (there were many aid stations).

I have to admit I was skeptical about this marathon: 2 loops, not many spectators, not many runners, the heat. Now I am a convert. Here are my comments: Pre-Race: Packet pick up was quick and smooth. No expo to speak of but then again I don't know that there are many running stores on the Island. The goodie bag was loaded with, well, goodies. The Race: Starting in the dark on the waterfront was peaceful. The course is very flat and most of it is scenic (except for 1 mile near the end of each lap that is on a commercial road and not as scenic). Water stops were frequent (more than 1 each mile). The water stops were well stocked (water cups, bottles, gatorade, crackers, cookies) but I didn't see any gels (glad I carried my own). There were spectators in only a few spots but the water stops were loud and cheerful, you could hear them before you could see them. There were port o potties on the course as well. Most people in this race do the half marathon, so I heard it could get lonely on the 2nd lap. However, between the relay teams, the 110+ full marathoners and the half marathon walkers, I actually thought there were enough people around at all times. The finish line was lively. They announced every runners' names as they came through. The medal is huge, very nice original design and it weighs a ton. Post-Race: There wasn't that much choice in food, mostly chocolate bars, granola bars, fruit and some other snack items. There was lots of water, gatorade and of course, beer. The wait for massages really wasn't very long, as there is a table reserved for full marathoners. All in all, this marathon had everything I needed (and more). I hope I can come back in 2013 and I would definitely recommend it to others!