The course is flat and a great opportunity to PR. Full was canceled from storm damage to part of the course, so everyone raced in the half. But that didn’t stop me and other 50 staters from running the full anyway. We ran the half course backward to still have some aid station support. Ran through park, including Falls Park. While in South Dakota, I also recommend exploring Rapid City, Custer, Wall, and Badlands.

The race is organized by a small run club and was very welcoming. I drove from Boston to Ellerbe a few days before, stopping in Philadelphia and Raleigh. I stayed at the Ellerbe Springs Inn, a small bed and breakfast on a farm. Packet pickup was quick and well organized. The course is through rural roads and hilly at times. Along the race, many runners knew each other and cheered each other on.

I highly recommend the Cape Cod Marathon. This was my first race. After it, I was hooked on marathon running and the supportive community. Slightly hilly, but with amazing ocean views, cranberry bogs, and beautiful houses along the course. There were also multiple locations for my family to cheer me on. Clam chowder and beer were served after the race.