Calvin Coolidge called Vermont "this brave little state," and the quote is now inscribed in marble at the Vermont State House. This race is brave, for offering up a challenging course and being proud of it. For now, it's a relatively small race, but if organization, scenery and a truly memorable experience count for anything in our running world, then it won't stay small. The Half Marathon and Relay insure that it's never lonely along the course, and the volunteers at the Aid Stations are incredibly supportive and kind. I was working out a cramp and walked the first half of the marathon, so I had the opportunity to experience a lot of time on the course. If you are going to walk a course, this is one to select, as the views and the people will buoy your soul and your spirits. Loved this one and really hope I can go back, even though it's a bit of trek from Florida.
The town is lovely, the race is less than an hour drive from Burlington, if you need to fly in to Vermont, and packet pickup/getting to and from the race couldn't have been easier. The RD is as special as everyone says she is, and really does wait at the finish to greet every participant. If a race can be charming, then this one is it.