Olathe Marathon Official Website

The "Nitty Gritty" Details (User Opinions)

Brieanne H.
Kansas City, MO

  (04-10-2010)

"I enjoyed the physical aspects of the course. It was mostly flat, with small hills. The course wrapped around a mall and went through a lot of nondescript suburban areas and was very quiet and calm. There was very little crowd support--a few people sitting in their driveways, and lots at the start and finish, but it's a pretty solitary race.

I was really annoyed that they ran out of water at the first aid station. I was not at the back of the pack by any means, and our pace group got a "we're out, sorry, wait until mile 5" before we were sent on our way. I had my own bottle, but felt bad for those who didn't as it was a fairly warm morning in full sun. Rookie mistake. Port-a-potties were at every aid station with Gu at mile 9 which was nice.

The shirt (cotton tee) and medal were pretty chintzy. A tech shirt would be nice for at least the half marathoners as well as the full.

Volunteers were very friendly and post-race food was abundant--bananas, oranges, bagels, smoothies, and I believe tacos and beer (though I didn't try any.)

I'd run it again, but would love to see more improvements. Apparently it's really improved the last few years--but there's still a ways to go."

Reviewed by a: First Time Participant for 2010

Amanda B.
Miami, FL

  (03-26-2010)

"This was a very small race and doesn't exactly go through any amazing areas of the world...but it's fun! I enjoyed the smaller crowd and not having to shove my way to the front, the kindness of all the runners and the great organization for road closures."

Reviewed by a: First Time Participant for 2009