Waterloo Marathon boasts that it holds "small town charm with the perks of a big city race", a race "that offers something for all runners" could not be farther from the truth. As a mid-pack runner, nothing is more disheartening than finishing a marathon and having the expo already being 90% packed up. Crossing the finish line and receiving your hard earned medal (clay medallion, best part of the race) by someone who doesn't even congratulate you, or smile.
This run had rolling hills, and flat sections that were challenging at times. Aid stations were every 3km or so, hosted by volunteers who tried their best to keep their excitement. Aside from those aid stations, the only other people cheering you on were your family waiting at the finish line.
There are a limited amount of people in the race, which could fair well for you, if you are looking to place in your age group. This race will challenge you mentally, especially for mid-packers, as the field thins out pretty quick, and you may find yourself running alone for most miles.
Scenery is wonderful, as it goes through rural areas, and mennonite country.
Overall, this is not a marathon I would be racing to get into again, or be recommending to others.