Running a marathon in June can be risky if you're like I am, and don't like hot weather. I couldn't believe the weather when we landed (and I checked before I left). 45 degrees and overcast. In my opinion, that's ideal running weather!

Getting to Duluth is kind of a pain. Coming from central VA, I flew to Minneapolis, then had to take a three hour van ride to Duluth. Easy to schedule, cheaper than another flight, but kind of a pain. I also took that van ride back after the marathon.

Hotels in Duluth = jerks. Okay that's not entirely fair...they want to make money, and so they up-charge you on marathon weekend. One of the most expensive hotels I've booked for a marathon, and it was just an old Radisson. Glad I ran it, but ouch. Good thing about that hotel is the location. I walked to and from the expo and the finish line. Good restaurant too, although there are lots of options in Duluth.

Expo was good. It's a decent size race, so lots to buy if you're looking. I ended up getting a fleece because I was freezing. Packet pick up was easy.

Race morning was pretty straightforward. I walked outside the hotel and took the race bus to 26 miles away to the start. There were plenty of portajohns and also water at the start area. Luckily it never actually rained, it was just misty and foggy, so it wasn't bad waiting around for a half hour.

The start went off without a hitch. The course was point to point and ran alongside Lake Superior. It was pretty much flat and had nice scenery. Not a ton of spectators, but pretty good turnout the closer you get to the finish. UMD college kids and frat boys came out in full force (with drinks in hand, they were pretty rowdy) which was fun. The finish area was crowded. I ran with the American flag, so they made a big fuss about that when I came down the homestretch. The medal was decent. Shirt was decent. Nothing crazy but good.

Overall, it's not a cheap marathon to run but I really enjoyed it. It's well organized and executed, the route is scenic, and the aid stations are plentiful. I definitely recommend it.