The Nationwide Better Health Columbus Marathon

The Nationwide Better Health Columbus Marathon

On a scale of 1-30, I give this Marathon a 27

1-Poor
2-Average
3-Good

1) Location- Downtown Columbus, Ohio

The location average. It was a bit cold, then again it was winter. Make sure you wear your Runner’s Wrap. Getting to the race was easy. I was able to walk to the event.

Score: 3

2) Start

The start line was not very organized. They did not have Corrals so it’s first come first serve. So it takes a while for the participants to cross the start line.

Score: 2

3) Route

The route was flat. This type of course is good for anyone looking to improve their Personal Record.
Score: 3

4) Mile Markers

The mile markers were very visible and accurate.

Score: 3

5) Water Stops

The water stops were well stocked and the volunteers were on point. They really took care of all the thirsty participants.

Score: 3

6) Finish Line

The medal was not placed around my neck as soon as I crossed the finish line. The chip was removed first and then we came across the medals and the blankets. Thank goodness for the blankets. I was shivering once I stopped running.
Score: 3

7) Volunteers

The volunteers were really attentive and were there to help in every way possible. They took their job seriously. They were ready with inspiring words, and made me feel very special.

Score: 3

8) Spectators

The crowd was great for the most part. But, there were some areas where the runners had to inspire them. I remember one runner saying,” I did not lose 100 lbs. for this”! “Where is the excitement”?
Score: 2

9) Refreshments

Refreshments were in abundance, but there was ½ Marathoner and Marathon food. This created a participant jam because the ½ Marathoners could only pick up food from the right side of the food area. The left was only for the Marathon participants. It actually made more sense to distribute the food on both sides so that the ½ Marathoners would be out of the food area quicker.
Score: 2

10) Medal

The medal has Christopher Columbus on it. It was very appropriate because the event takes place in Columbus.
Score: 3

I recommend this Marathon to anyone who is looking to set a new Personal Record. The course is flat, and you will improve your pace. This race was my personal best.