5k, 10k, Half Marathon, & Full Marathon in 4 consecutive days....the trickiest part about this "challenge" was probably the training. Disney is successful at putting on a good race, and 4 days of shuttles went off without too much trouble. Be prepared to get up EARLY to catch the shuttles as most of the races began before the sun came up. The bus driver that I had on the morning of the half marathon didn't seem to know where he was going, but we all eventually made it to the start line on time. The start & finish areas were all well marked and easy to follow. Aid stations were well stocked & porta-potties were easy to spot on the course, as were the medical tents. For the Dopey Challenge each participant received 6 shirts and 6 medals (4 shirts - 1 for each race distance, then 1 for the Goofy Challenge and 1 for the Dopey Challenge. Same with the medals) Shuttles back to the resorts were timely - didn't have to stand around too long and fight cramping!

This was my first visit to Portland and the marathon was a very good experience. After running in some very large marathons it was nice to be in a smaller field of runners (approx 10,000). The expo was smaller than I expected, but had a good variety of vendors. The course had beautiful scenery with the exception of one area that received a "double negative" in my book: there was a very monotonous out-and-back section beginning at mile 5, turnaround at mile 9.5 and then finally some new territory at mile 11. That entire section of the course had very few spectators and very little to look at, except other runners heading in the opposite direction. Other than that I was pleased with the course. At the finish line I was AMAZED at the goodies given away to finishers! Two tech shirts (1 long sleeved, 1 short sleeved), a commemorative coin, a keepsake pin, finisher's medal, a rose, and plenty of food & beverages. At a time when the economy was still struggling it was very nice to receive all of these things! This is also an event that takes pride in being "green". Well done, Portland.

The expo was very crowded and parking there was a nightmare. But, race day exceeded all of my expectations! In 2009 I ran the 1st Half. The wave start was very well organized & had great energy with the music and festivities. Running across Fisherman's Wharf and smelling sourdough bread baking was almost too much to handle! The course is very hilly but the views are unmatched, especially crossing the Golden Gate Bridge. If you're not trying for a PR it would be wise to carry a smartphone for photos. Finally, the finish line was exceptional. As you make your way through the chute you receive your medal, a space blanket, fluids (water, sports drink, muscle milk), fruit (bananas, oranges, apples), Ghirardelli chocolates, chips, cookies, & bagels, and even a selection of tea. Probably the best finish line I've ever seen.