One of my favorite marathons ever - the scenery was absolutely incredible, along the water and with some beautiful fall foliage. The course had some rolling hills, but for me, that helped to pass the miles more quickly. Excellent course support and a great post-race meal to warm up. I would definitely do this one again!

I have done this race three times, and each time I question myself why... It is brutally hot and in the dead of summer, with very little shade along the back part of the course. The first few miles include a boring out-and-back along a highway-like road, and then a HUGE hill winding through a park. Not a great start. The second half of the race is much more scenic, running along the Back Cove and the ocean on paved paths. Overall, it is that part of the race that keeps me coming back - although a few more aid stations in this hot, unshaded part of the race would be much appreciated!

I would definitely do this marathon again - although if I had the opportunity, I would probably just stick with the half. Transport to the race is fairly easy to navigate, with a bus pickup from Second Beach down to the starting area. It was freezing before the race, but there was a small area to wait inside, which was key. The first half of the course was incredibly scenic, running along the ocean and down Bellevue Ave with views of the mansions - I loved it! Since most runners do the half, the second part of the marathon was pretty lonely, and a little tough as it ran right past the half marathon finish - so discouraging! The back half of the course had some scenic spots as it ran past the beach, but it was largely through residential areas and made it feel like it would never end! Definitely sticking with the half next time...

Not a race I would want to do again... Other than about a mile in downtown Louisville and then another half mile around Churchill Downs, the marathon is long and pretty boring. Most runners do the half, so the back half of the course is long and lonely. The few miles through the park seemed needlessly hilly - and brutal at that point in the race. I did enjoy running under the tunnel and then around Churchill Downs, however - a very cool experience. But 2 scenic miles out of 26.2 leaves a lot to be desired...

I thoroughly enjoyed this race. This out and back course tours the best of greater Portland, including the Back Cove area and the surrounding harbor. With much of the race along the water and through residential areas, the course was scenic and well supported. Although some rolling hills, I thought this was a very manageable race for newer runners and more experienced marathoners alike. Maine in the fall is incredible, and the weather could not have been more hospitable for running. A well-managed and enjoyable race.