The Indianapolis Monumental Marathon is my favorite fall marathon in the Ohio Valley. The event is very well organized! Just the right amount of communications without being overwhelming. The course is flat and easy, great for the first-time marathoner or those looking to BQ. The events are centrally located with the expo/packet pickup just one block from the starting line. With multiple hotel options nearby, I'm able to park my car for the weekend and be within walking distance of all race events, restaurants and other attractions. Get a great deal on registration on New Year's Day!

When you thing Kentucky, you think bourbon and the Urban Bourbon in Louisville, KY does not disappoint! Everything on the race is related to bourbon...the tech shirts (long sleeved!!), the merchandise (shot glasses!), event the communications are bourbon related, served neat. Plus race photos are INCLUDED!! Then there is the after party! Free to race participants (additional fee for spectators) including bourbon, craft beer, local pizza and burgoo without having to wait in long lines. All set in the beautiful fall scenery. The course itself runs through historic Cherokee Park, designed by Fredrick Law Olmstead as a precursor to Central Park in NYC, with a few rolling hills, but otherwise a flat course. Plenty of water stops and great volunteers! Stay for the whole weekend and take the discounted Bourbon Trail tours through various distilleries. A truly wonderful race experience!