This was my second running of the Hartford Marathon and my third marathon ever. I was determined to come back & do better than I had in 2013 when I had last run. I was smarter, calmer, and much better prepared this time around. Though, I would say that Hartford is a great race for first time marathoners as well as those looking for a PR or qualifying time. The course is easy, fairly flat, well-marked & well staffed. Personally, I did not use any of the aid stations, but they seemed to be in full supply with adequate volunteers.

I attended the Expo to pick up my bib shortly after it opened on the first day, which meant there weren't a lot of people or much to see. That seemed like a bummer since I was looking forward to the pre-race camaraderie, not just non-runners trying to sell me anti-chaffing cream. I did score a great deal on a winter running jacket though! I was also a little bummed about the t-shirt & swag bag. The long sleeve shirt was cotton (can't run in that over the winter!) and there was nothing in the bag except pamphlets. I learned later that samples were given out an individual booths, but since I arrived fairly early, there wasn't much available. The interactive Mazda booth was fun though & I got a neat shoe tag (just for fun). Because I was going for the New England Double, I visited the Vermont booth & did get some nifty stuff there.

As for the race it's self; it is fantastic! I was displeased with the starting corrals because you needed to be a seeded runner to be able to start with the 3:30 pace group. If you weren't seeded you were placed behind a barrier. Kind of annoying since it meant for a lot of dodging around walkers at the start, but it was easy enough to fall into pace. The course was well marked and well layed out. Crowds along the way, even through residential areas, were enthusiastic and supportive. Police officers lined much of the course directing traffic and lending an air of safety. My family was able to park right near the start/finish line (even though we arrived only 30 mins before the gun!) and the gear check was quick and easy. Post race festivities were a little lacking. There didn't seem to be enough food for all the runners nor staff in the massage tent. Lines were long and slow moving. I waited over a half an hour for the massage tent and never moved up. However, I ran a PR and was happy to attended my home-state marathon.

https://mazyruns.wordpress.com/2016/10/11/the-hartford-marathon-was-a-success/