Newport Marathon Official Website

The "Nitty Gritty" Details (User Opinions)

Ryan N.
Portland, OR

  (07-01-2009)

"Good course. Fairly flat and the hills that are there are not bad, in pretty decent locations. Cool weather, with it on the coast makes it nice. Low key event and small. Fills up quick. No chip timings, but really not needed for such a small event... Bonus- oyster shooters at one stop along the course! Great course. Will definitely do it again. Great way to start the season."

Reviewed by a: First Time Participant for 2009

Paul G.
Belfair, WA

  (06-16-2009)

"A somewhat flat marathon, but there are hills! Additionally, it is mainly on the road with a curved surface in many places, it's not down on the beach like you'd think though it's a stone throw away if you have a good arm.

It sells out fast at 750 so if you want to run this marathon you need to think ahead and book a hotel fast too, they won't run out but it's nice having a hotel on the beach so you can see the water while recovering after the marathon!

Their medal in 2008 was great being it was their 10th. The 2009 medal was a downgrade due to their wanting to have a local medal designer. The RD said they will upgrade their medal for the 2010 race though, so don't let the medal stop you from running this event as it's generally quite good. "

Reviewed by a: First Time Participant for 2008

Gina H.
Aumsville, OR

  (06-02-2009)

"Good course, nice people. Not a lot of fans or support people along the way, but the ones there were great. Information wasn't exactly correct about the course, nor was a lot of info available. It's great for a first time race since it's so small, but I was a little disappointed in the lack of professionalism in parts of it. Still, it's a homey feeling, if you like that. The online info says the course is relatively flat; maybe as opposed to Boston, but it really isn't - lots of rolling hills. I'm used to that so it wasn't a problem for me; I was just surprised at it.

It would be nice if gel was offered at more than the 15.8 mile mark - that's a bit far into the race to wait for fuel. I just carried my own.

I would probably do this race again, but not next year. I'm a new marathoner and want to experience other races first.

Also, no expo to speak of and I know chip timing is expensive, but it would have been nice to have it.

Finisher area was ok, not great, but ok for a small race."

Reviewed by a: First Time Participant for 2009