I've enjoyed the Delaware Running Festival Half Marathon but would not consider running the Full since prior to 2019 it was two loops of the half. However, once I saw they eliminated the loop with the new course, I was excited to give it a go!

It won't be the hardest run you'll ever face, however, with limited fan fair on the back half, you need a bit of self-motivation. However, there are plenty of well stocked aid stations and miles are marked well, so you aren't completely on your own. Overall, I consider it a great race that I'd consider repeating.

Other Pros: Registration is easy and they have an ambassador program if you interested (or just looking for a discount code). The T-shirts have always been Under Armour, meaning you'll be getting a high quality tech shirt (long sleeve for the full). The finisher medal incorporates a bit of Delaware, which I guess is neat and also had a bottle opener built in this year. Finish photos are 100% and you won't get nagged about endlessly. Finally, it is pretty easy to get to being pretty much just off the exit to I-95.

Other Cons: The expo is extremely limited. I mean like less than one handful of vendors limited. I know they are looking to grow in that area, but until then, it is probably my biggest con of this race.

I lucked my way into a bib for this year's Star of Hope Half Marathon after it sold out. While racing it, it took a bit more than luck, but I earned my half PR!

I'd definitely classify this race as a smaller, local one. I don't think it had an expo, registration was limited, and crowd support was light. However, it is a fast, flat course, fees are low and go to a good cause (look up Thea's Star of Hope), and race management are friendly, like-minded runners.

Other Pros: Everything you need is at the starting line. No expo did not mean no vendors or giveaways. I enjoyed my pre-race stretch and post-race massage compliments of the local PT clinic. The medal is just cool and while pretty standard in design, the tech shirts were good quality. Aid stations might not have been everywhere, but I got gels and water right when I needed them. I love how they worked with local businesses (free hoagie from the Stop N Go down the street for example).

Other Cons: Really none. It is a small race. Temper your expectations in that regard and I think you'll be pleasantly surprised. And that isn't just my PR talking!

Advertised as "America's Toughest Road Marathon", I wanted to "run the Blue Ridge" but didn't want to over commit with my race schedule this year. Thus, this review will be for the 2019 Half Marathon.

First, let me assure you, in my opinion, this race lives up to its name. It was tough. I may have underestimated the challenge but was still glad I took it on. The price you pay in difficult you receive back with the beautiful views. Words cannot describe the scenes. If you need an excuse to stop, snapping a few photos would be an acceptable one.

Other Pros: Roanoke is an wonderful place to visit. While they might not be tons to do if you are more of a city person, I loved the small town feel and enjoyed my quick visit. The race is well managed and spectators were everywhere. Had I stepped up to the Full, I would have had crowd support (and would have needed it). Getting in and out was easy and the alignment of the race with the big concert series was cool. Completely free photos and a solid finisher medal are also worth mentioning, as is the bonus swag (a nice drawstring bag).

Other Cons: Another race with a rather small expo. Maybe my standards are high in this area, but when I can get in and out in less 15 minutes, I think it could be expanded. T-shirts were made with some type of recycled material this year. Good for the environment, but not very breathable in my opinion. It may have been me, but the photo stations didn't quite line up. I got numerous photos coming directly out from a water station, cup in hand =(.

The second in a three race series provided by ultrasignup, the Naked races are known for their low cost to enter and no frill swag. That's right, I ran a race knowing there would be no finisher medal! No T-shirt either. However, drinking your morning coffee from the finisher mug is very rewarding.

The course stretches out a bit beyond that of the Naked Nick (the first race in the series) around the park. I chose the 20 mile option as I'm not a huge fan of doing multiple loops. Aid stations were well placed out and are the highlight of the series in my opinion. Lots of food - I mean you could basically get yourself a full breakfast if you wanted. Supporting race volunteers will make sure you have whatever you need to make it to the next station.

Other Pros: Cheap entry. You aren't paying for things and they aren't charging you for them. Should things come up, you can also transfer nearly last minute. While not located immediately in Philadelphia, it wasn't a difficult drive (even after the run).

Other Cons: Trail runners are awesome people and will help you along. That is key because besides them and volunteers, you won't see any fans cheering you as you go. Weather during that time of year can throw a curve ball (or a few inches of snow) you way as well. The race will be canceled in the extreme, but otherwise plan to be ready to run.

The Loop Run will probably guarantee you a PR since there aren't that many (or any) other 8.4 mile runs. The race consists of a loop around Kelly Drive/MLK Drive, starting and ending around Lloyd Hall. For something like $20 including a shirt and medal, I'd say it is a good deal for an early December run that can be treated like a training run.

Other Pros: The after party at Bishop's Collar is cool and they buy you're first drink! While there isn't an expo, bib pickup is easy. I run a lot of races and rarely find myself keeping the shirts now because I have so many, however, the loop run shirt has managed to stay in my collection. They don't do race photos, however, they do video recording of you crossing the finish line (in case you want extra motivation to make sure you don't leave anything in the tank!).

Other Cons: Its close to winter so there probably isn't anyone around that isn't either running the race or training. You also need to be self-motivated as there is only like one aid station (a water stop) and I don't recall any mile markers. Given that a lot of folks use this loop to train, I don't think that is a huge deal.