I ran this race after crashing and burning in Chicago five weeks earlier. I was in pursuit of a BQ and I figured since I was all trained up, why not? After I finished - and cut 8 minutes off my time! - I realized had I just run this event *instead* of Chicago, I would have had my BQ. It's flat, flat, flat! And since most of it is run on a cinder or dirt path, its a little easier on the legs.

So let's start with registration. I registered on line about a month before the event. It was through RunSignUp and was super easy. And considering the soaring prices of marathons, super affordable. Under $100.

The Race is in Washington's Crossing State Park along the Delaware River. I drove there from my home in Northern NJ on race day morning. I got there about 90 minutes before race time and there was plenty of parking available. I walked up to the registration table (like I would for a 5k) and picked up my bib and shirt. The volunteers were all super friendly and knew what they were doing! There is no expo.

This is event is super small. The field was about 200. There are more volunteers working one water stop at the NYC Marathon than working this entire event. So it's not for everyone. For a first-time marathoner, I probably wouldn't recommend it. If you need hordes of screaming crowds along the course, bands, sponsor perks and a lot of hoopla, this is not the event for you. If you want to run with spectacular scenery, on a fast flat course on a nice fall morning, supported by some caring volunteers, this is the race for you!

The out and back course is the Delaware Canal tow path from Washington Crossing to New Hope. There are points where you are running with the canal on one side and the river on the other and feel you are out in the middle of no where. It's peaceful. Spiritual even.

There is a goofy part around mile 8 on the way out where the course goes up steps along the path. No problem except that you have to run down them on the way back, which at mile 18 doesn't feel as good on the legs. but that just adds to the intrigue of this quaint race.

There is also a Half marathon the day before. i highly recommend this race for runners looking for peace and quiet - and a BQ. Well run, beautiful course -- and a chance to win an age group award!