Race Reviews

WC's review of 2023 race.   

Review

Great course through neighborhoods, and metroparks. A few small hills, but mostly flat. Finish on the 50 yard line of University of Toledo Glass Bowl.

Race Tips

Logistical Tips (Hotels, Restaurants, Parking, Discounts, etc.)

Lots of great restaurants to check out in Toledo. Incovias, Rosies and Sebastianos good choices for pre-race pasta dinner.

Njv's review of 2023 race.   

Review

Great city, well organized, low key !

Race Tips

Logistical Tips (Hotels, Restaurants, Parking, Discounts, etc.)

Stay on Secor close to UT or downtown on the river. Pre race dinner at Zia's Saturday is excellent.

D G's review of 2023 race.   

Review

This is a well-organized marathon with a fast course. Some nice gradual downhills when you need them like in the park after mile 20. The stretch from mile 22 to 25 can get tough with small crowd support and not much to see but push through since you are getting close. I enjoyed the feel of not running in a city atmosphere like in Cincinnati, Columbus, Cleveland, Detroit or Pittsburgh. Not saying that Toledo is a better marathon but it was nice that it was totally different than the city marathons. This marathon is also very convenient if staying north of the start on Secor road. The after party was also very nice.

Race Tips

Even pacing or trying to negative split on this course should be attempted. Be cognizant of the direction of the wind and plan accordingly by drafting off others when possible and getting into a position to allow it to push you when it is at your back.

Logistical Tips (Hotels, Restaurants, Parking, Discounts, etc.)

For the race directors it was great having a number of timing spots throughout the course but should add one to the half marathon point.

MT's review of 2022 race.   

Review

The race is well organized and runs through some beautiful neighborhoods. Not as flat as I expected and with more twists and turns than I thought, but still a pretty fast course overall, specially if weather is in the 40’s as usual.

2022 weather was, unfortunately, pretty hot (mid 60's at race start) which made it harder than usual.

Still, a very good experience overall, with top level runners and a good race for a PR.

Race Tips

Logistical Tips (Hotels, Restaurants, Parking, Discounts, etc.)

Instead of staying at a hotel downtown (which are few and not very good level in general), consider staying at an AirBnb or similar nearby the race start. Beautiful and safe area for families.

Kori K.'s review of 2022 race.   

Review

Race is well run, first 8ish miles on open roads, so not too congested. Run by a church and Father will bless you with holy water if you want-not if you don't. Pockets of spectators through second half. Would love to see more live music or DJs along the course.

Race Tips

Great local race energy and welcoming for visitors. Flat, fast course-plenty of parking, but get their early to park near the start and avoid having to navigate around road closures.

Logistical Tips (Hotels, Restaurants, Parking, Discounts, etc.)

Can easily find great places to eat. Toledo and suburbs have awesome restaurant selection.