This race was my first marathon and the local scene instantly made me felt welcome and ready. All the sponsors were local, and the small number of participants are all so friendly. The race is put on by GECKO which stands for Give Every Child Knowledge of the Outdoors. The race is a fund raiser for underprivileged kids to get them outside. While everything was super low key, it doesn't mean the volunteers weren't enthusiastic! All of the aids stations were well stocked and fantastic.