We (my wife and I) learned of the Hogeye Marathon from the BibRave 100 Top Marathons list, and received additional info at the 2017 Dallas Marathon Expo. Unfortunately, the discount code they gave us at the expo wasn't valid. Not a huge deal...this race is already relatively inexpensive. Proceeds from the Hogeye events go to Northwest Arkansas charities.
The area was a bit unknown to us before deciding to run this race. It's a beautiful part of the country (in the southern Ozarks), and there's plenty to do before/after the race in Bentonville/Rogers/Springdale/Fayetteville.
The event website, registration site, and social media all had inconsistent info regarding the packet pickup times and location. The FAQs covered some, but not all, participant concerns. Social media was slow to respond (or didn't respond at all) to questions posed on Facebook and Twitter. I understand it's mostly locals who participate in this race, but communication and information could definitely use improvement.
The expo was small, expected for an event this size. A few vendors, including the local running store. Packet pickup was super easy. However, I felt an info booth would have been helpful.
The race moved to Springdale in recent years. I'm not familiar with the original course, but it seems this move may have cut out some of the scenic views (Springdale is on a plateau). Still, it follows some country roads, goes through a few parks/greenways, and even visits the local baseball stadium.
Parking was plentiful, but a shuttle is also provided from a few spots around the area. Gear check, runner tracking (via RaceJoy), and pace groups are available. There are plenty of water/aid stops. But they could use a few additional port-o-lets (not my experience, but I heard from two other runners there was a wait at different points). Elevation is not flat, but not terribly hilly (732-791 feet elevation gain, depending on app). Downtown Springdale is a great location for the start/finish and post-race gathering.
The finisher's medal was GINORMOUS. Finishers also get a novelty pig nose and a race jacket. The post-race "party" had the standard water/gatorade, granola bars, bananas, PB sandwiches, chocolate milk, etc. Free massages were offered in the expo tent (until noon, anyway). Tyson provided a chicken sandwich or hotdog. Where to get the post-race drink (beer/soda) wasn't communicated, however, so we went without. Some - including us - also discovered after getting back home, there was apparently a logo'd backdrop where post-race photos were being taken.
What impressed me the most about the Hogeye Marathon was the enthusiasm from the public works/safety people and volunteers. They were all very involved, fun, and helpful from start to finish. Quite encouraging. Awesome "hometown" vibe!
Overall, the Hogeye is a good race. With a few tweaks, it could be a GREAT event. I'd recommend it to new marathoners, those seeking a running weekend getaway to the Ozarks, and anyone wanting to set a PR. I was happy with our experience.