I ran the Buffalo Marathon in 2016, that's the year that many other races - including the Vermont City Marathon - had to shut down and pull people off of the course due to the extreme heat. The same thing would have happened in Buffalo - where temps were in the high 80s on the day of the marathon - if it weren't for the fact that race organizers prepared for this extreme weather in every possible way.

About a week before the race, I started receiving emails from race officials about the possibility of high temps on race day and the importance of hydrating often and early - including the days before the race. As race day got closer, the emails - which were very friendly in tone - continued to remind runners to hydrate while also encouraging anyone with a time goal to sit this one out.

On race day, organizers doubled the number of water stations available on the course. They also put out the call to the local community to help in any way possible. As we ran through the scenic suburbs of Buffalo, spectators handed out water bottles and offered hose-water showers to anyone who needed to cool off. It was a real testament to how much the community loved this race and wanted to support its runners!

Despite the high temps, I never overheated and I had an amazing time taking in the sights on this beautiful course. If you're looking for a medium-sized race with easy logistics, a fun atmosphere, a scenic course, and amazing community and race management support - the Buffalo Marathon is the race for you.