There is no question that running through New England in September, especially along the shore, can be an amazing sight. The Surftown Half Marathon does not disappoint when it comes to beautiful scenery as it takes runners all through the Misquamicut Beach area of Rhode Island. But looking past the scenery, this race has a lot to improve upon. The race starts right on a main road by the water that was not closed to traffic. Runners are corralled on to either side on the sidewalk, cramped in with nowhere to move. Once the race does kick off, the first three miles take runners through some very scenic neighborhoods that fall on some extremely terrible roads that have not been well treated at all. There is a high chance of injury in this section due to uneven roadways, dips, potholes and other obstacles, which is only increased by the high congestion in this tight area.

The course is touted as being fast and flat, which is true for a good portion of it once you get out of this rough terrain area, but is anything but flat when you hit an unexpected steep climb at mile 10. The finisher's medals are awesome for this event once you do make it to the finish, and the after-party does impress.

Make sure you get there early. Parking is a nightmare, and trying to leave will be equally as difficult.