I'm now sold on the full! Two countries, bridge and tunnel ascent and descent! The East of Woodward half is beautiful, with the route snaking through some of the D’s nicest neighborhoods. I have race walked it three other times in the half.
Review I am a race walker and did this full marathon for the first time beginning to end. The high energy start was the best of any race that I have done. Very well organized from beginning to end. The only negative (and it's an obvious one) is that the marathon is very large and crowded. It's a flat, fast course that's very scenic and with great crowd support. One of the best organized races I've run. Logistical Tips (Hotels, Restaurants, Parking, Discounts, etc.) Purchase the parking garage passes offered on the website, and arrive early (30-60 mins) if you would like to use the restroom. If you live in a hilly area, this will not be an issue, but if you live where it is flat, you will certainly feel it in your calves.
Race Tips Wear layers, and The race is mostly flat, but there is a steady incline in the middle-late miles. The race has fireworks at the beginning, and they do a good job with corrals and wave starts. The leaves are changing that time of year, there is a lot of crowd support, the people are friendly. Last year was a little warmer than usual. Typically the weather in Columbus, mid October is perfect racing weather (starts in the low-mid 40's- and ends in the 50's). Review I've run this marathon twice, and both times it did not disappoint. Great access to the start / finish line and lots of pre and post race dining opportunities. Logistical Tips (Hotels, Restaurants, Parking, Discounts, etc.) If you are coming in from out of town, take advantage of one of the downtown hotels. The rush of energy you will receive when you look them in the eye and thank them for being there is like nothing else you will ever experience during a marathon! Take a moment and give a 'high 5' to these kids and their families. Race Tips This race supports the local Children's Hospital and each mile has it's own patient 'champion' to help motivate you along the way. The course is beautiful and offers a nice variety of environments.downtown, Old German Village, OSU Campus and quiet suburban streets. Great Expo / Packet Pickup, start line, course support and finish line. Review This race is very well organized from beginning to end. Logistical Tips (Hotels, Restaurants, Parking, Discounts, etc.) Race Tips Leave for the start line early, traffic is never good The first half is pretty fast and the last not so much. The new course last year was a lot tougher miles 16-22. We didn't prepare as much as we should've. Logistical Tips (Hotels, Restaurants, Parking, Discounts, etc.) Get there early! Traffic was not good. Race Tips Prepare for the hill from 19-21. It was my first marathon and I just signed up for another one so I'm still going! I did not live the constant two miles of up hill from mile 19 to 21. Logistical Tips (Hotels, Restaurants, Parking, Discounts, etc.) Get to the start line EARLY, you will want to soak it in. Race Tips Get hotel room early and stay downtown. Review Amazing run through many neighborhoods of Columbus and the best part is meeting the Children's Hospital Child Champion every mile. (east side of High St.) Parking west of High or in the Arena District will have you penned in by road closures. If you are driving in on race day, arrive downtown early (by 6:00 AM) and park at the Convention Center. Head to the Arena District for food and drink. Logistical Tips (Hotels, Restaurants, Parking, Discounts, etc.) If you are coming from out of town, stay on the north end of downtown. Give them a 'high 5' as you pass by and remember, your legs might be tired and your lungs might be burning, but every one of these kids would gladly trade you places. When the going gets tough, look to them for inspiration. Race Tips Every mile has a Children's Hospital Patient Champion. If you need to go, wait until mile 14 if you can.
The lines (especially on the first half before the half marathoners split off) can get quite lengthy. One criticism is that the on-course port-o-Johns are too few. Great starting line experience and the course scenery changes every few miles so you never get bored. And everything is within easy walking distance. The downtown start is super convenient for out-of-towners. Every time, it's been GREAT! From Expo to Post Race Party everything is top notch. Review Over the years, I have run this Marathon 6 times. Custom Race Map & Elevation Profile Service.Request a Race be Added to the Pace Band Page.Request a Marathon be Added to the Marathon Time Converter Tool.