There's nothing like the Marine Corps Marathon. I've done it twice now, and both times it brought me to my knees. One way is the toughness of the course. It's not easy and has a lot of elevation gain (700 feet) for DC. Most of the noticeable hills are at the beginning, but from the half way point to the finish is a small but steady uphill climb. The 14th Street Bridge is brutal. It's about 20 miles in, so right at the "wall". There is no shade, no aid stations, no crowds, nothing. Just you and thousands of other people fighting to survive. But once you get off the bridge and get into Crystal City, it's as if civilization returns. But that final climb up Iwo Jima Hill to the Marine Corps Ware Memorial is the second moment you're brought to your knees. Not because of the climb but because of the Marines lining both sides of the road, should to shoulder cheering you on. There truly is nothing like it. So, if you're up for a challenge, do MCM. If you want a moving experience, do MCM.