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Latest reviews by Drew Hartman
Drew Hartman recommends this race
(2017)
"Good to see long distance races reach Long Island"
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If you're from the tri-state area and looking for a half marathon or marathon, consider the Long Island Marathon or Half. While the course isn't the most scenic, and the expo isn't the most extravagant, this race weekend shows potential for growth year after year. The event was efficiently run--from the parking situation to packet pickup, to post-race festivities. Kick off the summer with a solid race in early May. I can't wait to see this race weekend to evolve through the years.
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Drew Hartman recommends this race
(2017)
"A Once-in-a-lifetime opportunity"
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Everyone. Stop what you're doing and find a way to run Boston. As a long-time resident of Boston and long-time spectator of the Boston Marathon, I always knew of the fun and debauchery of Marathon Monday. However, you don't truly get to feel the energy of this city until you're on the road that day. The energy from the city was unique in different neighborhoods, which made each turn a true experience.
Regarding the logistics of the race, everything about this race was calculated and executed well. The bussing to the starting line, the back drop-off and pickup, the packet pickup, the expo, etc. Very pleased with how the B.A.A. eliminated the stress of the "non-racing" variables that weekend.
This is an Abbott World Major so if you're chasing down a 6 star medal, get your feet on the course ASAP. You won't be let down
(2016)
"No thanks."
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This race was troubling on the whole for me. While I was living in Vegas at the time, I thought there was no better way to experience Sin City than to run through it. First: everyone should know that this is an evening race. Whether that is a positive or negative aspect for you, just know that the race is held at night and you should prepare accordingly.
The race started off with a party at the fairgrounds, which was impressive to say the least--Snoop Dogg and all. The beginning of the course takes you through the joy and craziness of the strip. You run down the streets normally blocked off for vehicle traffic only as the neon kisses your face. They even have run-through wedding ceremonies! This part is COOL. Unfortunately, shortly after experiencing the strip, you get snaked around through downtown Vegas so many times that you may die of boredom. Plain and simple, a majority of the marathon course lacks luster and you have to do spirals around city blocks to reach 26.2, which is a real drag. However, if you love Vegas and want to make a vacation out of this race, it may be a great option for you.
I think this race illustrated the issue with race companies like the Rock N Roll series--they are third parties that plop themselves in cities for the sake of an event. The do several things very well, like offer a well-polished machine of marathon model: the race packages, the entertainment, the expo and such are executed very well. However, this event, like I imagine some of their others, truly lacks a community spirit. There was little to know presence from Vegas in this event and the route was clearly made by someone who does not know the city well. Will be looking for events made by locals from now on.
Drew Hartman recommends this race
(2014)
"A must for runners of all abilities"
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Whether you are chasing a Boston qualifying time or looking for a personal best at any level, the energy of Chicago will guide you to a finish. Similar to NYC, the Chicago Marathon winds you through different neighborhoods without ever taking you out of the city--Absolutely wild. The first 8 miles will fly by as you run through downtown. Your eyes will be plastered on the buildings and your ears will be fill by countless spectators cheering for you. As you explore different neighborhoods of Chicago, you see vignettes of the many cultures that make Chicago what it is. As you come in to the home stretch, make sure you save some power in your legs because you'll finish the race on a slight incline!
Afterwards, the post-race festivities are top quality. If you decide to make the trek down to the Nike Store on Michigan Ave, they applaud you on the way in the store. So cool!
Only critique: given that Nike was the main sponsor of the event, I expected a better race shirt. Other than that, no complaints!
Drew Hartman recommends this race
(2013)
"Not really a "city" marathon"
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This is a solid race that is quite accessible in the northeast. However, Hartford may not be the race you look to for outpouring of crowd support. Hartford is a financial city that features a flight of the workforce at 5 pm on Friday. As a result, crowd support is a bit lacking. Hartford is also a small city so a majority of you work will be done in the suburbs. Beware: late in the race, you will have a long stretch on the right side of the road only to make a 180 degree turn and come back on the opposite lane of the road. It can be a little tedious and defeating. However, the journey back to Hartford brings much anticipating as you begin to see the skyline in the distance. Few marathon finishes beat the experience of coming down the chute through the famous archway. Savor the flower-lined final 200 meters and experience the loudest cheers of the day. Finish strong!