Running Reviews

OBX, Outerbanks, Marathon, Kitty Hawk North Carolina

2012-11-11T23:59:00.000-08:00

11/11/2012 - Review and a course map of OBX, Outerbanks, Marathon, Kitty Hawk North Carolina, (DoubleH)

The 2012 OBX Marathon took place on sunny yet chill morning in Kitty Hawk North Carolina. The course was sort of flat and sort of on paved roads except miles 10 to 13 that went through the woods where at parts we ran on soft sand.
Weather was good, some headwinds coming out to the main road, unpaved portions of the course probably a DoubleH all things considered on my hRank system!

More details and review of the course with a map are below, but first photos from the course:

Sunset at the OBX

Starting line

Wright Brothers National Monument

Mile 10, where the road ends and the sand begun

Brace up for running up the bridge in mile 24

Proobably 0.5 mile to the finish

Ranking: DoubleH, unpaved and hilly parts, some headwinds.

Distance: 26.2 miles

Course: The OBX Marathon run in Kitty Hawk and finished in Manteo North Carolina, hard to explain the course turn by turn since it went through pedestrians only parts as well as trails. Please see map and details below (click on it...).

Crowd: Hard to tell, looked like most people were from the area although the rental car agent at the airport knew right away I was going to the marathon so I guess significant number of people flew in from out of town.

The easy part: great weather, flat

The challenging part: Annoying random hills, soft sand, headwinds

Price: $110

Pacers:No

Timing: Chip

Qualifying: None

Official website: OBX Marathon

My 2 cents: 1) very nice people, I almost felt like a family and friends type of event . 2) make sure you are on the right shuttle bus to the FULL marathon and not the HALF in the morning. 3)If you are looking for a scenic, ocean front run this marathon is NOT the one you should run. Most of the course is not on the first line to the water which are behind sand batteries to protect from the tides. A better ocean front marathon would be Maui Marathon

Thanks for reading and as always please don't hesitate to email/reach out with any questions.
Thanks!
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MUST READ: By reading parts or all of this blog, the reader (“You”) understand that trying on your own, some or all of the reviews (in part or in full) in this blog is potentially hazardous activity. You should not participate in running or walking or jogging or any other form of physical activity (collectively known as “Activities”) on the trails or courses or races (collectively known as “Paths”) reviewed unless you are medically able and properly trained. In any event, your Activities taking place in the Paths reviewed in this blog will be solely at your own risk under your full responsibility and under no circumstances shall the author and owner of this blog have any liability for direct or indirect physical or mental damages/injuries or death or damage/loss to your valuables or belongings as a direct or indirect result of your decision to participate in Activities based on reviews in this blog.

The author of this blog does neither represent nor warrants that the reviews in this blog are accurate or provide accurate representation of the prevailing conditions including but not limited to course, weather, surface condition or animals at the time you will choose to participate in Activities based on the reviewed Paths. The reviews were accurate strictly for the time at which they were explored and ran or walked by the author and should not be relied upon for planning or doing your Activities.

By reading parts or all of this blog and choosing to run, walk or physically follow any of the courses, trails or races reviewed you for yourself and anyone entitled to act on your behalf, unconditionally and with no reservations waive and release the author and owner of this blog, its agents and representatives, and all sponsors, their representatives and successors from all claims or liabilities of any kind arising directly or indirectly out of your participation in Activities based on the reviews in this blog.

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Duke City Marathon, Albuquerque New Mexico

2012-10-21T22:34:00.000-07:00

10/21/2012 - Review and a course map of Duke City Marathon, Albuquerque New Mexico, (SingleH)

The Duke City Marathon was a flat race in the high desert in Albuquerque New Mexico. The course is an out and back, along the Paseo del Bosque Trail .
Weather was perfect, shiny day with temperatures in the 50's, a mile high altitude helped this race to earn SingleH on my hRank system!

More details and review of the course with a map are below, but first photos from the course:

The starting line

Hot air balloons made the course even pretier

This photo was taken facing west from the turn around point

Finish Line

Ranking: SingleH, high altitude.

Distance: 26.2 miles

Course: The Duke City marathon run started at Albuquerque's Civic Plaza and then 13.1 miles mostly on the Paseo del Bosque trail and back to the plaza. Flat course shared with bikes and other Sunday morning recreational runners/walkers. see map and details below (click on it...).

Crowd: Mostly locals, marathon maniacs and 50 staters, I, once again, ran into a guy that ran the Highest Marathon in the USA and Little Grand Canyon Marathon with me in July and September.

The easy part: great weather, flat

The challenging part: High altitude, can do a better job with the aid stations

Price: $80

Pacers:No

Timing: Chip

Qualifying: None

Official website: Duke City Marathon

My 2 cents: won't be a bad a idea to carry some fluids on you

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Yonkers Half Marathon, Yonkers, NY

2012-09-16T20:30:00.000-07:00

9/16/2012 - Review and a course map of the Yonkers Half-Marathon, (DoubleH)

I ran the Yonkers half-marathon after deciding in the last minute that running the full was way too much given the cold I was battling, a decent race, DoubleH on my hRank system!
More details and review of the course with a map are below.

Ranking: DoubleH, humid and hot.

Distance: 13.1 miles

Course: The half marathon run started 2 blocks off the metro-north Yonkers station. We ran north along the Hudson river and then up over the hill to run ~6 miles in the busy streets of Yonkers to the finish line. See map and details below (click on it...).

Crowd: Mixed crowd, some people ran the full which was 2 loops of the half.

The easy part: fairly flat, one steep hill climbing from the river

The challenging part: Humid, hot (and I was under the weather)

Price: $75

Pacers:No

Timing: Chips

Qualifying: None

Official website: Yonkers Half and Full Marathon

My 2 cents: Save your legs to the hill in mile 4-5, pick up your pace thereafter...

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Little Grand Canyon Marathon, Huntington Utah

2012-09-08T23:00:00.000-07:00

9/8/2012 - Review and a course map of the Little Grand Canyon Marathon, (DoubleH)

The Little Grand Canyon Marathon was a scenic run in the high desert of Utah and down the little grand canyon to San Rafael River.
We started early but it heated up fairly quickly, high altitude of over 5,000 ft earn this race a DoubleH on my hRank system!

More details and review of the course with a map are below.

Ranking: DoubleH, high altitude and hot.

Distance: 26.2 miles

Course: The marathon run started 2 miles east of the intersection of Center and Main streets. We ran for the most part on Co Rd 332 all the way down to the bridge that cross San Rafael River, sorry guys running in the desert makes it really hard to describe it turn by turn see map and details below (click on it...).

Crowd: Mostly locals, marathon maniacs and 50 staters, I, once again, ran into a guy that ran the Highest Marathon in the USA with me in July.

The easy part: downhill

The challenging part: High altitude, hot

Price: $75

Pacers:No

Timing: Stop watch

Qualifying: None

Official website: Little Grand Canyon Marathon

My 2 cents:Hydrate, sunblock, start as early as possible, enjoy the views in the canyon

Thanks for reading and as always please don't hesitate to email/reach out with any questions.
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Moose's tooth Marathon, Anchorage Alaska

2012-08-19T23:05:00.000-07:00

8/19/2012 - Review and a course map of the Anchorage Alaska Moose's tooth Marathon, (nixH)

The Anchorage Alaska Moose's Tooth Marathon was a fast and flat course. Although, arguably, it is an urban course in the city, 99% of it was on paved trails surounded by evergreen trees - I liked it!
Cool weather, great aid station and a flat course at sea level position this course as a targeted PR race, if that's your goal jump on a plane to AK and run! NixH on my hRank system!

More details and review of the course with a map are below.

Ranking: NixH, really favorable course to set your PR.

Distance: 26.2 miles

Course: The marathon run started and ended on the corner of 6th and F in downtown Anchorage. We ran on the waterfront south west past the airport, about 10 miles from the start, and back up to the intersection with Chester Creek trail, total of 16 miles, where we turned right for about 4 miles and then back to the intersection and to the end. Detailed elevation and course map is below (click on it...).

Crowd: Mostly locals, marathon maniacs and 50 staters, I actually ran into a guy who ran Bear Lake ID with me in June - fun times....

The easy part: flat, cool

The challenging part: It rained towards the end, it may rain all along - it's Anchorage!

Price: $85

Pacers:No

Timing: Chip

Qualifying: None

Official website: Moose's tooth, Anchorage AK marathon

My 2 cents: If you are not local and you traveled all the way to Anchorage take the week off, travel off the beaten path and see how amazing this state is.

Thanks for reading and as always please don't hesitate to email/reach out with any questions.
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It is highly recommended to perform the Activities as part of a group of multiple people. In addition it is highly recommended that you will carry essentials which include but are not limited to at least 64 Oz. of water, 4 energy bars, map of the area with a marked course, watch, GPS, cellular phone and a first-aid kit.

By reading parts or all of this blog and choosing to run, walk or physically follow any of the courses, trails or races reviewed you for yourself and anyone entitled to act on your behalf, unconditionally and with no reservations waive and release the author and owner of this blog, its agents and representatives, and all sponsors, their representatives and successors from all claims or liabilities of any kind arising directly or indirectly out of your participation in Activities based on the reviews in this blog.

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Review and a course map of the Madison Marathon, Montana

2012-07-23T20:32:00.002-07:00

7/22/2012 - Review and a course map of the Madison Marathon, Montana (SextH / HHHHHH)

Madison Montana marathon is the, arguably, highest road marathon in the USA. It took place in Montana near the town of Ennis on NF-290 also known as Gravelly Range Road. The very scenic course provided unparalleled views of mountains and valleys. This is a limited-support, high altitude course with the low point as low as 8,334ft above sea level and as high as 9,558 ft. I can't stress enough these 2 points, so once again limited-support, high altitude course. SextH / HHHHHH on my hRank system!

More details and review of the course with a map are below.

The start

Black Butte

Monument Ridge

Mile 9

Sample aid station - limited support indeed

Course views

Mile 20 hill

Ranking: SextH, high altitude marathon, very few aid stations (mostly just with water) and even fewer staffed with electrolytes, hilly course, late start so you will hit temperatures in the 70s, humid, windy.

Distance: 26.2 miles

Course: The marathon run started on NF-290, Gravelly Range rd, near the base of Black Butte. We ran on NF-290 north passing the finish line after 13 miles and headed north for additional 6 miles where we turned around for the last 6 miles to the finish line at Clover Meadows. Detailed elevation and course map is below.

Crowd: many Mostly locals, I didn't confirm this but heard that I was honored to run alongside Larry Macon (Most sanctioned marathons in a calendar year Guinness record holder, and more than 900 of them in total), Bill Whipp (280 marathons) and Angela Tortorice (288 marathons)

The easy part: Scenic, fresh air

The challenging part: 9,000 ft above sea level, bring your own water and food, hilly with total elevation gain of more than 2,500.

Price: $80

Pacers:No

Timing: Stop watch

Qualifying: None

Official website: Madison Montana Marathon

My 2 cents:
1) This is a difficult course, in 2012 there was an early start option to start at 7am this can help with the heat.
2) I had less air running that high, but the little I had was the freshest I could ask for.
3) My training included running Mt. Baldy twice once for distance and once for time.
4) If you are a pure road-runner and would never step a foot off the blacktop - this is not a road marathon

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These are mountain, unpaved trails and paved road courses; some are away from medical services. The Paths have numerous risk factors which include, just to name a few out of many others, rattlesnakes, coyotes, mountain lions, ticks, poison oak, and other potentially dangerous and harmful animals, vegetation, fire hazards, and other dangerous and harmful elements. Wearing sun block will protect your skin and should be taken into your consideration before exposing your skin to the sun.

If you choose to participate in Activities based on one, some or all of the reviewed Paths you assume all risks associated with your Activities, including varying and/or existing potentially harmful or hazardous weather conditions including but not limited to high heat and/or humidity, varying and/or existing conditions of the trails and roads, animals, poison oak, and traffic on the Paths including travel to and from the Paths, and including but not limited to trips, slides or falls of cliffs or steep slopes and contacts with other participants, all such risks being known and appreciated by you, and including all direct or indirect injuries or death that may be suffered before, during, or after an Activities.

It is highly recommended to perform the Activities as part of a group of multiple people. In addition it is highly recommended that you will carry essentials which include but are not limited to at least 64 Oz. of water, 4 energy bars, map of the area with a marked course, watch, GPS, cellular phone and a first-aid kit.

By reading parts or all of this blog and choosing to run, walk or physically follow any of the courses, trails or races reviewed you for yourself and anyone entitled to act on your behalf, unconditionally and with no reservations waive and release the author and owner of this blog, its agents and representatives, and all sponsors, their representatives and successors from all claims or liabilities of any kind arising directly or indirectly out of your participation in Activities based on the reviews in this blog.

14 miles trail run Mt. Baldy, review and a course map

2012-07-04T23:41:00.000-07:00

7/4/2012 - 14 miles trail run Mt. Baldy, review and a course map (QuintH / HHHHH)

Happy 4th! The genesis of the decision to spend the holiday running up Mt. Baldy, the highest mountain in LA county, goes back about 4 weeks ago when I signed up for the, arguably, highest altitude road marathon in Madison MT. The marathon course averages approximately 9,000 feet above sea level. So I thought that the Mt Baldy 14 miles, out and back, running up to more than 10,000 feet, can be a great prep run. I'd rank the run QuintH / HHHHH on my hRank system!

YES! this run and course up to the summit follows almost identically the course of the "Run To The Top" race. Hope this review can be helpful for those of you who plan to participate in "Run To The Top". (I ran last year, but the race got canceled b/c of thunder storms at the summit so I ran only up to the ski hut)

More details and review of the course with a map are below.

The start of Devil's Backbone Rd.

Mt Harwood to the right of this trail

Mt Baldy - steep and technical run

Cloudy day....no views

Really?

Ranking: QuintH, High altitude course starting at 6,448 ft, Heat- started running in the low 80's, Hydration was carried on my back - no aid station, extremely Hilly course, running to more than 10,000 ft from about 6,100 ft, the first half of the run up to about 8,000 ft above sea level was Humid.

Distance: +14.19 miles (the reason for the "+" is because the GPS didn't measure all the curves and rather straight lined between points, so all in I ran more than 14.19 miles but that's the figure that was measured so listing that here)

Course: The trail run started in the end of Blady Rd at the parking lot of the chairlifts. I ran down on the paved road and made a right hand turn towards Baldy Falls, from there I ran on the fire road up to the ski hut. This part was about 4.5 miles and elevation gain of about 2,000 feet. This part of the course was hot and humid (I started at 2pm...) but the course was not technical with moderate slope.The fun part started when I got on Devils Backbone Road, though temperatures dropped and humidity was lower, the course got much more technical and the run up the mountain much steeper. Did I mention, much less air? You get the point. This leg up towards Mt. Harwood and then Mt Baldy was strenuous and challenging. Regarding the course, I just kept running up hill until there was no more hill to climb :). The way back to the starting point follows the same course up but reversed.

Crowd: recreational hikers, I was the only runner

The easy part: nothing was easy in this trail run

The challenging part: 6,000 to 10,000 above sea level, bring your own water and food, steep hills, technical course in the second half of the climb from 8,000 ft to 10,000 ft.

Price: Just recreation pass if parked down at Manker Flats.

Pacers:No

Timing:No

Qualifying: None

Official website: N/A

My 2 cents:
1) If I could sleep the night before in the village to better acclimatize to the altitude I would have done it. I haven't and it made this run much more challenging.
2) I was thinking why this run was harder than Yosemite Falls and Cloud Rest trail runs and think that for different reasons. The Yosemite Falls trail run, though greater elevation gain, the run was at a lower altitude and shorter. The Cloud Rest run, though took place in similar altitudes, it had less elevation gain and I ran it after spending more than 24 hours in high altitude including the Yosemite Falls run.
3) I had just enough water, carrying 2 liters, to make it back to my car.
4) I would start earlier than 2pm when it is not that hot and humid

Thanks for reading and as always please don't hesitate to email/reach out with any questions.
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Review and a course map of Bear Lake Idaho Marathon

2012-06-08T22:37:00.000-07:00

6/8/2012 - Review and a course map of Bear Lake Idaho Marathon (DoubleH / HH)

This was supposed to be my first our of 2 back-to-back marathon totaling a full lap around Bear Lake. I woke up sick on the following day so this was, unfortunately, my one and only marathon for the weekend. This was a flat course up to mile 20 at an altitude of about 6,000 ft above sea level. The course was staffed only every 3 miles so I carried to hydrate between the aid stations. DoubleH / HH on my hRank system!

More details and review of the course with a map are below.

Ranking: DoubleH, high altitude marathon, small marathon so not many aid stations.

Distance: 26.2 miles

Course: The marathon run started in Garden City, UT in Garden City Park. I ran north along Bear Lake for approximately 13 miles and then turned right/east along the northern shore of Bear Lake for about 6 miles. The last 7 miles were along the hilly eastern bank of Bear Lake.

Crowd: many Marathon Maniacs and 50 States Marathon Club members
The easy part: Flat, temperatures in the low 40's when I started the run in 6am and rising to low 60's.

The challenging part: 6,000 above sea level, bring your own water and food, rolling hills starting in mile 20.

Price: $75

Pacers:No

Timing:No

Qualifying: None

Official website: Bear Lake Marathon (Idaho)

My 2 cents: I trained in high altitude 2 weeks before this marathon, this was very helpful to get used to the running conditions.

Thanks for reading and as always please don't hesitate to email/reach out with any questions.
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Review and a course map of San Diego Rock N' Roll half marathon

2012-06-03T22:16:00.000-07:00

6/3/2012 - Review and a course map of San Diego Rock N' Roll half marathon (NixH / None)

5 days before my planned back-to-back marathons on Friday and Saturday I decided to take it easy and jog San Diego's Rock N' Roll half marathon with a friend. This was a great course, flat, well staffed which was great for a casual half before an intensive weekend ahead of me. NixH / None on my hRank system!

More details and review of the course with a map are below.

Ranking: NixH, perfect weather, flat, no wind, sea level altitude.

Distance: 13.1 miles

Course: The half marathon run started at the corner of Quince Dr and 6th Ave and ended in Sea World. The course had many turns and loops so best would be to see the map below for more details.
Crowd: 35,000 runners

The easy part: Flat, course well organized, great weather

The challenging part: No cars access near the finish line, we walked 1.4 miles to the nearest trolley station

Price: $125

Pacers:Yes

Timing: Shoe chip

Qualifying: None

Official website: San Diego Rock N' Roll

My 2 cents: Can be classic course for a PR

Apologies for the messy pace on my garmin page, I waited to my buddy around mile 8 and then continued to run with him till the end.

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Trail Run - Tenaya Lake through Cloud's Rest to Yosemite Valley

2012-06-03T21:57:00.000-07:00

5/28/2012 - Review and a course map of a trail run from Tenaya Lake through Cloud's Rest to Yosemite Valley (TripleH / HHH)

If I had to describe this trail run in one word I would say - Ambitious, in four words - It Was Worth It! This run was about 15.5 miles from Tenaya Lake through Cloud's Rest to Yosemite Valley. Extremely steep elevation drop and streneous trail run at altitude's as high as 9,800ft, all water carried on my back... TripleH / HHH on my hRank system!

More details and review of the course with a map are below.

Snowy Trail

Last stretch to Summit of Cloud's Rest

Half Dome from Cloud's Rest

Nevada Falls Steps - Can't Run...

Ranking: TripleH, low temperatures helped in this irreplaceable scenic trail run. It was, however, externally challenging due to the high altitude, snow conditions and floods on the trail, additional weight was added for carrying fluids.

Distance: ~15.5 miles

Course: The trail run started at the Sunrise point at Tenaya Lake on highway 120, I ran on the trail for about 6.5 miles to Cloud's Rest and then down towards the Half Dome and the Valley's Floor.
Crowd: Hiker, campers

The easy part: Easy? :)

The challenging part: 2,000ft elevation gain to cloud's rest from 8,000ft to almost 10,000ft. I was one month early for this trail as it was covered with snow, water and logs.

Price: N/A

Pacers: None

Timing:N/A

Qualifying: None

Official website: N/A

My 2 cents: No water on the course so had to carry all on my back. I specifically chose to run in Yosemite as I have 2 upcoming marathons at high altitude of 6,000 so wanted to get the feeling for running in those conditions, this was my second run after running up to upper Yosemite Falls the day before. 2012 was a dry year and even-still, I was a month early for this course as part of the trail was covered with snow other parts of the trail became little creeks. In addition, right at the start I had to cross through snow water up to my knees which made the rest of the day so much more interesting. I would run this trail in late summer / September for better conditions.

It was impossible to run from Nevada Falls to the Valley, the course was running down steps that were packed with hikers, the course was narrow so had to significantly slow down.

Thanks for reading and as always please don't hesitate to email/reach out with any questions.
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Trail Run - Yosemite Valley to Upper Yosemite Falls

2012-06-03T21:22:00.000-07:00

5/27/2012 - Review and a course map of a trail run from Yosemite Valley to Upper Yosemite Falls (TripleH / HHH)

This run was about 9 miles from the floor of Yosemite Valley and past Upper Yosemite Falls towards Eagle Peak and back.Extremely steep and long climb at high altitude with all water carried on my back... TripleH / HHH on my hRank system!

More details and review of the course with a map are below.

Ranking: TripleH, low temperatures and moderate humidity helped in this irreplaceable scenic trail run. It was, however, externally challenging due to a significant elevation gain, high altitude and additional weight carried for fluids.

Distance: ~9 miles

Course: The trail run started at Yosemite Village and followed the trail up to Upper Yosemite Falls. At the top I followed the signs towards Eagle Peak and El Capitan and then headed back down in the same way.
Crowd: Hikers (if you see any trail runner on this course please let me know it will make me feel mainstream :) )

The easy part: Nothing was easy, if scenic views make your run easier than check one for these

The challenging part: Running up and down the steps and single track path to and from Upper Yosemite Falls. Also, starting elevation of 4,000 and as high as 7,000 makes the run much harder if you are not used to that environment.

Price: N/A

Pacers: None

Timing:N/A

Qualifying: None

Official website: N/A

My 2 cents: No water on the course so had to carry all on my back. I specifically chose to run in Yosemite as I have 2 upcoming marathons at high altitude of 6,000 so wanted to get the feeling for running in those conditions. Other than that, views are incredible and I enjoyed them as I made my way up. I set a 3 hours cap for this run as I was planning to run ~16miles the next day, if I had more time I would run all the way to El Capitan and back which should be an amazing experience.

Thanks for reading and as always please don't hesitate to email/reach out with any questions.
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Trail run review and a course map in Westridge Rd, CA

2012-05-13T13:45:00.000-07:00

4/29/2012 - Review and a course map of a trail run in Westridge Rd, CA (singleH / H)

This run was about 10.9 miles on Mandeville and Canyonback fire roads Weather was good, course was hilly, singleH / H on my hRank system!

More details and review of the course with a map are below.

Ranking: singleH, weather conditions were good, hills on the ridge and the climb up to canyonback rd., no wind.

Distance: 10.9 miles

Course: The trail run started at the end of Westridge rd. plenty of street parking and in the lot at the top of the hill. I ran north on Mandeville fireroad and after about 3 miles ran down to Mandeville Canyon Rd. I ran south for about 0.25 of a mile and turned left at Hollyhock road, a ~0.75 mile climb to Canyonback rd. once up at the ridge I ran north to the Nike Radar station and back south to the starting point.
Crowd: Recreational

The easy part: not very technical

The challenging part: Hollyhock climb to Canyonback

Price: N/A

Pacers: None

Timing:N/A

Qualifying: None

Official website: N/A

My 2 cents: On this run I saw a pretty big deer on my way down to the canyon, we ran in parallel for about 50 feet, I am on the road and the deer on the slopes to my right. It was quite an experience. It is likely you will meet some "local" on this course, look for them!

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Review and a course map of a 12 miles run in Central Park New York

2012-05-13T13:27:00.000-07:00

5/6/2012 - Review and a course map of a run in Central Park New York (nixH)

This run was about 12.1 miles mostly on the paved road surrounding Central Park in New York. Weather was good, course was relatively flat, nixH on my hRank system!

More details and review of the course with a map are below.

Ranking: nixH, Weather conditions were good, small hills, water fountains are scattered around the course, no wind.

Distance: 12.1 miles

Course: The run started at W72nd street's entrance to Central Park. generally speaking, running and cycling in the park is counter-clock-wise so I headed south and just followed the paved road. after the Harlem Hill I had the option to stay on the road or mix it up and jump over to the unpaved road that took me up to the reservoir and back down to w72nd, once I got back to the start..... I did it again!
Crowd: Recreational

The easy part:paved road, good weather, good company of fellow runners

The challenging part: Harlem hill anybody?

Price: N/A

Pacers: None

Timing:N/A

Qualifying: None

Official website: N/A

My 2 cents: One of my favorite runs....

Thanks for reading and as always please don't hesitate to email/reach out with any questions.
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10.5 Miles Trail Run Malibu Creek State Park, CA Review and Course Map

2012-05-13T13:08:00.000-07:00

5/13/2012 - Review and a course map of a trail run in Malibu Creek State Park, CA (SingleH / H)

This trail run was 10.50 miles and is a great course to get back in shape before hitting the more challenging and hilly courses around SoCal. Weather was perfect, course was hilly, SingleH on my hRank system!

More details and review of the course with a map are below.

Ranking: SingleH / H. Weather conditions were great, hilly course but nothing too crazy given its a trail run.

Distance: 10.5 miles

Course: The run started at the intersection of Las Virgenes Rd and Mulholland Hwy. I ran east towards Malibu Lake and cut up to the ridge after about 1.5 mile then went down near Regan's ranch to the Paramount Ranch. I then went around Malibu Lake and back to Malibu Creek State Park and the starting point.
Crowd: Recreational

The easy part: Not too technical, not too hilly, good weather in the low 60's

The challenging part: The few hills I ran were steep

Price: N/A

Pacers: None

Timing:N/A

Qualifying: None

Official website: N/A

My 2 cents: Great course to get back in shape, pace yourself wisely in the first 4-5 miles, then you can fly the second half.

Thanks for reading and as always please don't hesitate to email/reach out with any questions.
Thanks!

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If you choose to participate in Activities based on one, some or all of the reviewed Paths you assume all risks associated with your Activities, including varying and/or existing potentially harmful or hazardous weather conditions including but not limited to high heat and/or humidity, varying and/or existing conditions of the trails and roads, animals, poison oak, and traffic on the Paths including travel to and from the Paths, and including but not limited to trips, slides or falls of cliffs or steep slopes and contacts with other participants, all such risks being known and appreciated by you, and including all direct or indirect injuries or death that may be suffered before, during, or after an Activities.

It is highly recommended to perform the Activities as part of a group of multiple people. In addition it is highly recommended that you will carry essentials which include but are not limited to at least 64 Oz. of water, 4 energy bars, map of the area with a marked course, watch, GPS, cellular phone and a first-aid kit.

By reading parts or all of this blog and choosing to run, walk or physically follow any of the courses, trails or races reviewed you for yourself and anyone entitled to act on your behalf, unconditionally and with no reservations waive and release the author and owner of this blog, its agents and representatives, and all sponsors, their representatives and successors from all claims or liabilities of any kind arising directly or indirectly out of your participation in Activities based on the reviews in this blog.

Review & Map Course of A2A Marathon,Ardmore OK (TripleH / HHH)

2012-04-28T17:14:00.002-07:00

4/1/2012 - Review of A2A Marathon,Ardmore OK (TripleH / HHH)

This Marathon was a relatively small event and an overall great experience of running from one of OK State's most beautiful spots through the open fields to Ardmore on the historic route 77.

More details and review of the course with a map are below, but before that; I have been thinking for a while how to rank a marathon or any other run by its difficulty, after all there are many factors that affect that. I think I cracked the nut, the new system I thought about is the hRank metric for Marathons' difficulty ranking. A Marathon's possible difficulties include the following categories:
Heat - how hot the weather was during the race
Humidity - how humid it was during the Marathon
Headwind - was there a strong headwind and for how many miles?
Hills - was the course hilly?
Hydration - were there enough hydration/electrolytes stations?
Height above sea level - this on is clear, no?

The hRank metric is still being thought through and is not 100% objective, but basically a Marathon gets 1/2H 1H etc for each of the categories that applies for that race. For example, the E.T. Full Moon Marathon would score HHH, TripleH, one for Hills, one for Hydration and one for Height. get it?
Ranking of a race would range as follows:
SextH - HHHHHH - These races are the most challenging, every possible variable works against you.
QuintH - HHHHH
QuadH - HHHH
TripleH - HHH
DoubleH - HH
SingleH - H
NixH - None - these are the races you would like to run for a PR

I hope to use this system from now on in all my reviews. Now back to A2A Marathon.

The Start - Turner Falls Overlook

Bar Nothin Road

The Ranch

Country road

Ranking: TripleH, HHH. Weather conditions were hot and humid with 15-20mph headwinds for 23 miles out of the 26.2.

Distance: 26.2 miles

Course: The Marathon is a point-to-point course starting at Turner Falls Overlook in the Arbuckle Mountains. The courses is mostly on Highway 77, once we were on it the marathon course was mostly downhill from about mile 3 to about mile 16. I enjoyed the scenic countryside of the foothills. There is a quick out and back on mile 7, we turned east running through Bar Nothin’ Horse Ranch, once back on the highway the marathon course continues straight south for an additional 9 miles all the way to Ardmore. At mile ~20 we headed west for a short out-and-back to the lake in Ardmore Regional Park, this leg was about 5 miles. From there the last stretch took us into Noble Stadium to finish the marathon after completing a 3/4 of a lap.
Crowd: Mostly locals

The easy part: There is a steep downhill part at about mile 3.8, take it easy catch up on some lost seconds and be ready for the rest of the race

The challenging part: The marathon started relatively late at 8am in the morning. By 9-10am temperatures were already in the 80s, add to that the humidity and the headwind and you are facing quite difficult conditions to deal with.

Price: $85

Pacers: None

Timing: Chip on shoe

Qualifying: None

Official website: A2A Marathon

My 2 cents: My strategy was to open strong assuming the headwind will go away as the temperature rise, which will also be helpful in running the more difficult part of the course before it gets really hot. My plan, simply out, failed. The wind lasted throughout the course and the temperature rose faster than I expected. My 2 cents for you folks who consider that race, is to train in similar conditions. Coming from California and running prior 3 Marathons at ~60 degrees dint make this one easier.

Thanks for reading and as always please don't hesitate to email/reach out with any questions.
Thanks!

runnersreviews.blogspot.com/

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Review and Course Map - Rock N' Roll New Orleans

2012-03-11T15:18:00.000-07:00

3/4/2012 - Review of the Rock N' Roll New Orleans Marathon, Louisiana

Yet another fun and entertaining marathon from the Rock n' Roll series, this marathon took place in New Orleans! A fun place to carboload the night before and spend another day for R&R the night after!
More details and review of the course with a map are below!

Hydration station anybody?

Cold beer!

And dirty martinis!

Distance: 26.2 miles

Course: The marathon started in downtown New Orleans a few blocks south of the French Quarter. The marathon course then headed south and then back north through the French Quarter to City Park and along the southern shore of Lake Ponchartrain and back south through City Park to the finish line.
Crowd: Elite and recreational runners, most of the runners in the event ran a half marathon whereas about 3,000-4,000 runners ran the full marathon.

The easy part: Perfect weather, we were lucky to have a sunny yet not warm day, course elevation, with a few exceptions was flat and appropriately staffed with hydration and energy station

The challenging part: Around mile 20 there are 2-3 steep bridges to climb, other than that the course is flat

Price: $100+

Pacers: No, I didn't see any

Timing: Chip on shoe

Qualifying: None

Official website: New Orleans Marathon

My 2 cents: The city is beautiful as well as running through the park and along the lake. If I had to do anything different, I would stay another night after the marathon to enjoy the lively music scene downtown. "Warning": beer and dirty martinis were served along the marathon course (pics are above) :)

Thanks for reading and as always please don't hesitate to email/reach out with any questions.
Thanks!

runnersreviews.blogspot.com/

Review and Course Map - Livestrong Austin Marathon

2012-02-20T00:51:00.001-08:00

2/19/2012 - Review of the Livestrong Austin Marathon in Austin TX

The 21st annual Livestrong Austin Marathon, run through the hilly roads of Austin surrounded by supporting crowds and indie rock bands. Review and course map are below.

After the race at gear pick up

Distance: 26.2 miles

Course: The marathon started on the north side of the capital and ended on the south side of the capital. The course is an eight shape, we ran south on congress ave and then back north on first ave. At that point the marathon course headed west for about a mile or 2 and then north for additional 5-6 miles. we then ran east and down south through UT Austin to the finish line at the capital. Detailed map is below.
Crowd: Elite and recreational runners and Austinians

The easy part: Perfect weather, course was appropriately staffed with hydration stations

The challenging part: The course is hilly, my total elevation gain was over 700ft, even the last 5 mile which are mostly down hill end with a steep climb to the finish line. Keep that in mind

Price: $100-$130

Pacers: Yes, you can run with one of the many pacers group.

Timing: Chip on shoe

Qualifying: None

Official website: Livestrong Austin Marathon

My 2 cents: I have ran more scenic and entertaining courses than that, however Austin's night life is awesome so if you are coming out of town to run it spend another day or two to taste everything this amazing city has to offer.

Thanks for reading and as always please don't hesitate to email/reach out with any questions.
Thanks!

runnersreviews.blogspot.com/

Trail run review and course map Canyonback Rd. and Mandeville Canyon Rd.

2012-02-05T16:54:00.000-08:00

2/5/2012 - Trail run review and course map Canyonback Rd. and Mandeville Canyon Rd., Los Angeles,CA

Run along Canyonback Rd with spectacular ocean and valley views and return through the cool Mandeville Canyon Rd.

Course map, photos and details are below.

Distance: 12.85 miles

Course: The run start and end points are at the end of N Kenter Ave.run north on Canyonback Rd. until it connects with Mulholland Dr. where the run will head west until the Nike Radar station make a left hand turn, after 0.25 there are water and bathrooms, keep running south and take stay to the left to run down the fireroad to Mandeville Canyon Rd. run down and make a right hand turn heading south. Look for Hollyhock PL where you will turn left and run up a steep hill back to Canyonback Rd. and back to the start point. This run should be slightly less than 11 miles, I wanted to add a few miles so ran back on Canyonback Rd. to get to almost 13 miles. Up to you and what you are training for!

Looking south down Kenter Ave from the start

Valley views from Canyonback Rd

Canyonback Rd looking north towards the Nike Radar Station

Ocean views from Canyonback Rd

More Ocean views

The easy part: Not very technical, running up the ridge is a moderate climb

The challenging part: Hollyhock PL is a steep climb over only ~0.7miles

Price: N/A

Pacers:N/A

Timing:N/A

Qualifying: None

Official website: N/A

My 2 cents: Run smart, save energy for Hollyhock!

Thanks for reading and as always please don't hesitate to email/reach out with any questions.
Thanks!

runnersreviews.blogspot.com/

Review and course map of Ocean Front 6K run, Santa Monica CA.

2012-02-04T20:00:00.000-08:00

2/4/2012 - Review and course map of Ocean Front 6K run, Santa Monica CA.

Sunday afternoon 6K training run, flat and fast! course map and details are below.

Distance: 3.77 miles

Course: The run start and end at the intersection of Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) and Temescal Canyon Road. Run south on the ocean front path for ~1.875 miles and turn around to the starting point

Crowd: Recreational runners

The easy part: Flat, ocean views, stunning sunset

The challenging part: Nothing really, the more you push the harder it will be so totally up to you

Price: N/A

Pacers:N/A

Timing:N/A

Qualifying: None

Official website: N/A

My 2 cents: The path is ideal for various training sessions, you can mix it up and run intervals, sprints or just jog a very long run.

Thanks for reading and as always please don't hesitate to email/reach out with any questions.
Thanks!

runnersreviews.blogspot.com/

Ocean Front 10 miles run, Santa Monica CA

2012-02-04T19:44:00.000-08:00

1/29/2012 - Review and course map of Ocean Front 10 miles run, Santa Monica CA.

Sunday afternoon 10 miles training run, flat and fast! course map and details are below.

Distance: 10.39 miles

Course: The run start and end at the intersection of Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) and Temescal Canyon Road. The course of the run was a 3.1 miles south on the ocean front path and back to the start point. Then, additional ~4 miles were added by running north, turning around to run south and back to the starting point.

Crowd: Recreational runners

The easy part: Flat, ocean views, stunning sunset

The challenging part: Nothing really, the more you push the harder it will be so totally up to you

Price: N/A

Pacers:N/A

Timing:N/A

Qualifying: None

Official website: N/A

runnersreviews.blogspot.com/

Walt Disney Marathon 2012 Review

2012-02-04T14:23:00.000-08:00

1/8/2012 - Review of the Walt Disney Marathon in Orlando FL

World famous marathon throughout Disney World's various parks. The marathon weekend and the course is packed with events and entertainment which makes the experience one of a kind.

Apologies, not sure why but the course was not recorded on my GPS, just the laps...

Distance: 26.2 miles

Course: The Disney Marathon started and ended at the EPCOT. From EPCOT we ran to the Magic Kingdom Park, Animal Kingdom, Hollywood Studios and EPCOT.

Crowd: Elite and recreational runners many of whom ran for the good spirit of this fun event

The easy part: Perfect weather, course well staffed with hydration/energy stations and packed with bands and cheering crowds!

The challenging part: It is a marathon after all... be prepared!

Price: N/A

Pacers:N/A

Timing:N/A

Qualifying: None

Official website: N/A

My 2 cents: Walking from the parking lot to the starting line can take some time and it was cold. You would check-in your bag before that. I recommend bringing a disposable space blanket if you have one.

Thanks for reading and as always please don't hesitate to email/reach out with any questions.
Thanks!

runnersreviews.blogspot.com/

Boney Mountain Trail Run

2012-02-04T14:03:00.000-08:00

12/4/2011 - Review and course map Boney Mountain in Rancho Sierra Vista and Point Mugu Parks, CA

Alright folks, full disclosure before we jump into the details, this run climbs up Boney Mountain, not a hill, not a hump, not a mound - a 1,800 ft Mountain!

Course map, photos and details are below.

Distance: 13.39 miles

Course: The run start and end points are at the intersection of W Potrero Rd. and S Wendy Dr. Most of the course follows the course of the Xterra run in Boney Mountain. Start the run towards and down Big Sycamore Canyon where I made a right hand turn to Hidden Pond Trail where a moderate climb will take you from about 400 ft to 1000 ft where you will enjoy great views of the ocean and Oxnard valley. Head east towards Old Boney trail and climb up Boney Mountain and down to the starting point.

Crowd: Recreational hikers

The easy part: Not very technical, the run down from the mountain is fast and fun.

The challenging part: Boney Mountain

Price: N/A

Pacers:N/A

Timing:N/A

Qualifying: None

Official website: N/A

My 2 cents: Don't overkill it running up from the Hidden Pond Trail, the bigger and longer climb is still ahead of you.

Thanks for reading and as always please don't hesitate to email/reach out with any questions.
Thanks!

runnersreviews.blogspot.com/

Mt. Wilson - trail run to the top!

2012-02-04T13:22:00.000-08:00

11/13/2011 - Review and course map of a trail run up to the top of Mt Wilson and back to Chantry Flats - Angeles Forest Park, CA

This challenging and strenuous trail run took place in Angeles Forest Park, the run is about 14 miles of a loop course with an elevation gain of more than 3,800 ft!

Partial course map, photos and details are below. Sorry,my GPS died more than half way through the course so the map is incomplete.

Distance: about 14 miles

Course: The run start and end points are at Chantry Flats in Angeles Fores. The first half of the run is the climb to Mt. Wilson from about 2,200 ft to more than 5,600 ft over about 7 miles. The course is in the park and just follow the signs towards Mt. Wilson. then head back down on Sturtevant Trail back to Chantry Flats. This trail was marked pretty well with signs. The views from the top are worth it, take a break and enjoy the expansive views from the ocean to the desert!

Views from the top

Benjamin Davis Wilson caption

More views from the top

The famous antennas

Crowd: Recreational hikers

The easy part:The second part....starting in mile 8!

The challenging part:Long and steep climb

Price: N/A

Pacers:N/A

Timing:N/A

Qualifying: None

Official website: N/A

My 2 cents: Temperature differential between Chantry Flats and Mt. Wilson is large, make sure to carry another layer of clothing, especially if running in the fall/winter/early spring. Map of the park can be helpful too.

Thanks for reading and as always please don't hesitate to email/reach out with any questions.
Thanks!

runnersreviews.blogspot.com/

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Santa Ynez Canyon / Eagle Peak / Trailer Canyon

2012-02-04T12:50:00.000-08:00

12/11/2011 - Review and course map Santa Ynez Canyon / Eagle Peak / Trailer Canyon - Topanga State Park, CA

Loop scenic and moderately challenging course through cool canyons and on top of the ridge.
Course map and details are below.

Distance: 9.52 miles

Course: The run start and end points are at the intersection of Vereda De La Montura and Camino De Yatasto. The first part of the course is through Santa Ynez canyon that will connect after a good climb to E Topanga Fire Road. Make a right on the fire road towards Eagle Point and run around it until connected to Temescal Fire road and head south on the ridge until the intersection with Trailer Canyon Fire road, make a right and run down to the starting point

Crowd: Recreational hikers

The easy part: Once you'll make it up to E Topanga Fire road most of the climb is behind you and you can run for pace on the ridge and practice down hill on the way down to the end

The challenging part: Part of the climb up to the ridge from the canyon is steps, if you are not well trained this can be challenging

Price: N/A

Pacers:N/A

Timing:N/A

Qualifying: None

Official website: N/A

My 2 cents: This is one of my favorite courses, it enables me to train for both endurance and pace.

Thanks for reading and as always please don't hesitate to email/reach out with any questions.
Thanks!

runnersreviews.blogspot.com/

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Review and course map Tapia Park / Bulldog road

2011-11-12T22:53:00.000-08:00

11/6/2011 - Review and course map Tapia Park / Bulldog road - Tapia and Malibu Creek Parks, CA

This challenging and strenuous trail run took place in Tapia Park, the run is about 14 miles of a loop course.

Course map and details are below. Sorry, no photos this time as it was pouring rain that morning.

Distance: 14.18 miles

Course: The run start and end points are at the intersection of Los Virgenes Rd. and Piuma Rd. Run west to Tapia Park and head north towards Malibu State Park the road will pass by the filming site of the TV series Mash and shortly after I made a left hand turn to Bulldog road running up a steep hill for about 3 miles. Once I ran up to the ridge I ran east overlooking the pacific ocean to my right and valleys and mountains to my left this part of the run was about 2 miles, the last 4 miles of the run were downhill back to the starting point

Crowd: Recreational hikers

The easy part: None for this specific run, weather conditions, rain, wind and fog made it a real challenge throughout.

The challenging part:Spare some energy and good spirit to run up Bulldog Rd., it is a long and steep hill

Price: N/A

Pacers:N/A

Timing:N/A

Qualifying: None

Official website: N/A

My 2 cents: Running this course in the winter is MUCH harder than in the warmer and dryer seasons. If you do decide to run, 2 layers, rain jacket and gloves are highly recommended. Run with a cellphone, make sure you put it in a ZipLoc so it won't get wet.

Thanks for reading and as always please don't hesitate to email/reach out with any questions.
Thanks!

runnersreviews.blogspot.com/

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