Level Pebble Official Website

The "Nitty Gritty" Details (User Opinions)

Sharon G.
Ferndale, MI

  (07-29-2009)

"It was nice to have an enthusiastic crowd at the finish. Just a really nice race. I would absolutely run it again and bring friends."

Reviewed by a: First Time Participant for 2009

Kelly C.
newport, MI

  (07-26-2009)

"This is a small race with a pretty quick front pack. So if you are running 9-10min miles or slower, be prepared to be running alone.

Also you should know, the 4mile and 10K start together and the 4mile runners turn off at mile 2. This could be good or bad. Just keep in mind when your running that some of the super speedy people are peeling off at mile 4 and not in it for the long haul. The race is not chip timed.

It's a mostly flat course with just a few speed bumps along the way, but I might still argue with calling the race "Level Pebble". You are running on a bike path a good portion of the time which is level and through some newer subs which are also level. But in two different sections of the course you are running on a choppy, uneven, full of potholes "gravel" (although to me it looked more like ashpalt that wasn't maintained) road. Really need to keep your eyes on the terrain there so you don't take a misstep.

It is not a closed course but the volunteers and Flat Rock police do a FANTASTIC job of stopping traffic at intersections and even telling cars to slow down in the sub divisions. I maybe had four cars pass me through the entire race.

It was hot though, especially the second 1/2 of the course. I was literally trying to get into the shade of teeny bushes just to get a break from the pounding sun. It was a huge relief that the final .2 was in the shade.

There's really hardly any fans, mostly just the cops and volunteers cheering you on. One man put his house out for you to run through and a family was sitting out on their porch cheering, but if you need the fan support to make it through. This is definitely not the race for you. Personally, I kind of liked the solitude.

Tons of giveaways at the raffle at the end. I have a hard time believing anybody walked away empty handed. Along with your cute cotton t-shirt, water bottle, and free bowling passes, you get free use of the community center for the day which is just beautiful and has a pool.

My two favorite things about this race: Panera Bread bagels at the finish (cinnamon raisin...yum!) and NO lines at the actual real bathrooms prior to the race (no port-a-potties on the course FYI)

PS. Water only at the aid stations located at mile 2, 4, and 5 1/2ish."

Reviewed by a: First Time Participant for 2009