Harrisburg Marathon

First marathon in 13 years, walked primarily, jogged when I felt like it! Early start for walkers was fine, organization and communication from all race personnel was excellent! Course was reversed this year, this was my first time so I just had to adjust what I planned for. Well marked and well volunteered. Spectators were few but enthusiastic, and well represented by cowbell! 3 bridges to go over, Italian Lake section was really cool. More trash cans further from water stations needed for less trash and pick up maybe. 16 oz. bottles are a waste, some had the 8 oz. which were better. You like flat? This is the one for you! Yes, the FireBall guy was there, handing out shots, whatever, and there were also free pickles further down by another, if you like! Harrisburg local enough to me, was perfect for me to walk, no issues. Food good at finish, they use NASA shrink wrap so either bring a knife or use your teeth to get the wrap open! Do your better self a favor, not a big fan of the Host Hotel Crowne, RD should visit. Every staff and valet are A+, but the hotel is just not well staffed or well managed or maintained. Food, no, go to the Hilton 100 yards away. Much nicer food and accommodations! Staff was just as nice.

This was a very nice smaller marathon. The logistics were super easy. It was simple to get to, there was plenty of parking near the start, and enough port-o-johns. Overall the course was flat and scenic, with not too many spectators but enough to keep it interesting. I was a little concerned about a double loop course and being at like mile 10 thinking how I'd be back in a couple of hours and then just hoping to hang on. Also worried that running right past my car at mile 13 would be easy to bail out if not feeling it. But turned out to be a non-issue. What really impressed me the number of volunteers and how good they were. There are quite a few turns and turnarounds but there were marshals at all of them so it would be near impossible to stray off course. The aid stations were also top notch, including 8oz water bottles which I really liked as I could get them and drink without stopping or spilling half all down my front. Highly recommended, it's a good one for a PR or BQ attempt.

Very nice small marathon. Course goes along the river and is primarily flat and quite scenic. There is not tons of fan support but definitely enough to keep you going. We stayed at an airbnb in town and were able to basically roll out of bed and walk to the race. Would definitely run this again.