This was my second marathon, the first being the extremely well organized Vermont City Marathon. This was an extreme contrast. You wouldn't think race organization was that critical...until you see the effects. There were nowhere near enough porta potties- at the start of the race and in the marathon. The line for the porta potties at the start of the race was 30-40 people deep. There were a total of 2 porta potties on the course. Total.

And it felt like there were not enough water stations. It was very sunny- not much shade especially on the 2nd half of the course (which was beautiful along the coast). They need water stations much closer together especially when runners are getting tired, the last 7 or so miles. In addition, the water was not kept in coolers so it was baking in the sun. Hot water is not refreshing. They had clear plastic jugs that they were pouring into dixie cups. The clear plastic jugs got very warm in the sun. They needed coolers at all stations. A few of the water stations ran out of dixie cups too- and volunteers were pouring water from the plastic jugs into runners' mouths.

Packet pickup on Friday was sooo disorganized. One table held a list of all the runners for all races combined- relay, marathon, half. You had to find your name and number. Then go to another table- again not organized by last name or distance but instead by number- there you got your bib. Then go to another table to get your shirt. Um... I've done plenty of races- I've never seen it done like this and it made for a big mess that took forever.

The course itself was ok. First half or so was a bike path through a wooded area- kinda boring. I'd much rather have run through the huge houses on the Vineyard. 2nd half was on the coast. It was all very flat. Not much in terms of spectators along the course except at the very end.

I wasn't impressed and definitely wouldn't go back. If you want a pancake flat course, this is a good one. Getting there is a pain as well- you have to drive to Woods Hole, park in far away lot, take a shuttle to the ferry, take 45 min long ferry ride, then get to your hotel by bus or uber. It was fine to do once but I guess I expected more.