Good for a First???

So I am looking at doing my first marathon this year. Do you think that the Fargo marathon is a good choice for a newbee? It falls in perfect alignment with a half that I am training for and I would like to just continue on the training path. I did my first half in September in Chicago. Had a great time and wanted your feedback on Fargo.

Thanks,

Edited Fri Feb 1st 2008 12:14 am by stephmomrn

I think that Fargo would be a really good choice for your 1st marathon. The race has enough runners to give it a good "buzz" not too crowded. The loop course is mostly flat with no killer hills. With the use of the Fargo Dome the logistics are really good and the indoor finish in the Dome will be an experience you will never forget for your first marathon completion. Fargo is also very budget friendly with the entry, pasta dinner, hotels etc. being more than reasonable. Speaking of hotels there are 3 that are within easy walking distance of the start finish area, Candle Wood Suites, Days Inn and the Homewood Suites where I am staying at this year. I looked the other day and you can still get a room at Homewood for just over $100 which includes breakfast. I have run 16 marathons including Fargo the 1st 3 years and rank it right near the top with other races like Twin Cities, Ottawa and even Chicago which was probably my favorite but really expensive. All in all a really great event.

hope to see ya at the Dome

I ended up registering for the Green Bay Marathon instead. My husband really thought it was too far away to go to the Fargo. Do you have any experience with Green Bay. From what I read, I am hoping that it will be a good first for me. I was originally planning to just do the Chicago this year as I live in the area, but have decided to continue on to the marathon along with my half training. I am excited and really felt like I needed to sign up for something to keep the motivation going - I like the training aspect. Thanks for your input!!

I have not run Green Bay but it gets good feedback.

check out www.marthonguide.com for reviews on Fargo, Green Bay etc.

best of luck