This was my first road full marathon experience and one of my best marathon memories! Fargo Marathon isn't just a race - the entire weekend is an experience.

Expo: Just plain awesome and very busy. The Fargo Marathon race expo has been full of great vendors, fun freebies and tons of people each time we have attended.

Race Swag: The full marathon runners received a zip-up technical shirt along with a Fargo Marathon drawstring backpack. The medals are solid, high quality. They have well-designed medals every year that I have seen them!

Course: This course helped me to run a BQ before I knew what a "BQ" was! For my first road marathon, the Fargo Marathon course was a great road to run. Fargo is flat but usually WINDY. The weather in May is unpredictable, but that's northern North Dakota/Minnesota for ya! In 2011, the race day temperature was cool but it was perfect running weather - and plenty windy, of course.

The course is mostly residential and not overly scenic BUT the music and cheering fans totally made up for it. Throughout the race, I don't remember running a stretch that wasn't lined with people watching!

Aid Stations: Great aid stations with water and sports drinks available. GUs were offered at specific aid stations.