The Las Vegas Marathon

Las Vegas Marathon

On A Scale of 1-30, I give this Marathon a 18.

1=Poor
2=Average
3=Good

1)Location: Las Vegas, Nevada

All the runners lined up on The Strip. The fireworks and Casino Lights were a beautiful sight. The sunrise was an amazing site. The only problem was that the beginning of the course was on the street. The lights on the black top were very slippery. One of my team mates saw a gentleman fall on his face.

Score: 1

2) Start

This Marathon does not have corrals. The start area was very chaotic. Everyone was pushing to get closer to the start so it was a little uncomfortable while we waited for start.

Score: 2

3)Route:

It is flat route, a good race to set a good Personal Record (PR, to qualify for The Boston Marathon.
Score: 3

4)Mile Markers:

Along the run I kept looking for mile markers, but saw none. Therefore it was difficult to pace myself. I remember trying to figure out if I should pick up my pace or not. I was very frustrated.
Score 1

5)Water Stops:

The water stops were sufficient and well stocked, and managed well.

Score 3

6)Finish Line:

When I got to the Finish Line there were no blankets left.

Score 1
7) Volunteers

The volunteers at the water stops were great. But,The strangest thing that happened was when a Police Officer just cut me off as he monitored the runners on his motorcycle. Why not wait until the path is cleared?

Score 1

8) Spectators

I don't recall anything spectacular about the crowd. I do recall that some were holding signs which basically said we should be in church and not running. But I wonder, why they were out on the route and not in church.

Score 1

9) Refreshments

There was plenty of food and fuel for all the participants. The volunteers were very friendly, attentive and generous.

Score 3

10) Medal

The Medal was just the right size. I did not receive it as I crossed the Finish Line. That would have been a nice touch, but I had to walk to where the volunteers were handing them to us.

Score 2


I would not recommend this event if you are trying to improve your Personal Record. Also, it is very important to stay warm after a race. The event was not well organized, example the number of blankets did not match the number of participants.

If you just want to participate for the fun of it, and to see the variations, shapes and sizes of Elvis, then go for it. Otherwise there are plenty of well organized events you can participate in.