If you're looking for a fun, well supported marathon, this is the one.

The expo is outstanding with lots of free swag, special appearances and local vendors. The course goes through downtown Louisville with a little bit of everything. Starting at Slugger Field, you run through the streets with thousands of cheering supporters. Aid stations start at mile 1-2, so you never need to worry.

Locals line the streets for miles cheering, playing music and handing out water/fuel to runners. Kids want high fives.

The biggest highlight is the run through Churchill Downs, home of the Kentucky Derby. Enter the front Gates and run down the tunnel to the infield as highlights and commentary of Derbys past play on the record breaking big screen. The course takes you around the infield (dozens of clean, completely empty bathrooms here) and out through the tunnel back to the street. Here, the half marathoners split and the marathoners head to the hilly section of the course.

It's a beautiful course and I would absolutely do it again.

This race is held in the beautiful Parklands. It's an out and back on a concrete path through woods, along the water and by farmland. The course is fast and we'll supported with some rolling hills and flats.

The biggest thing to be aware of is that the path can get tight with people coming both directions. It's not quite as wide as a one lane road, but close.

This course is fast and fun. It starts/finished at a mall, but takes you through a greenway and near a lake before turning back. The out and back course is fairly flat and well marked with plenty of aid stations.

Overall, my experience with this course was enjoyable and, while not a PR, it was close. The only drawback was the fact that it was in late September when the Tennessee weather can be very hot and humid. Hydrate and be prepared.