Virginia Creeper Marathon
What Runners Say...

"Many thanks for all your work on this event. In spite of the weather, it was a great experience."
    Terry & Mel Scholl, Biltmore Lake NC

"It was a raw day, but the support was great. Thanks!"
    Roddy Cobb, Mooresvile NC

"I really enjoyed the marathon, even with the weather. What a great show!"
    Jim Price, Morristown TN

"I had a great time, you guys did a great job, and it just inspires me to keep going!"
    Stephen Benson, Todd NC

"This was everything I was hoping for. I qualified for Boston, which was my goal. Now I'm hoping my husband or friends will run it so we can return. And thanks for posting results so soon."
    Mary Lund, Berwyn PA

"Thanks for putting on a great event. As you know, this was my first marathon. I was running in honor of my father, who passed away in 1996. He had a heart attack in 1972, at age 32. Later he had a stroke and had to learn to walk again, but he didn't give up. He started walking, then running, and eventually completed several marathons. I felt him running with me on the Creeper Trail. This place will always be special to me."
    Monty Shores, Salisbury NC

"Thanks for such good support! And the cow pastures are so great! A great race, despite the rain."
    Mary Dorsey, Durham NC

"Thanks so much for a great run! Please tell all the volunteers thank you - they were awesome!"
    Kathy Spasoff, Munster IN

"Thanks for a wonderfully supported and organized marathon! It was good weather for running, but for the volunteers it had to be miserable, and I, and all the runners, were very appreciative of their support. It was my first Creeper but I look forward to coming back. I even made my Boston time for 2009 with 7 minutes to spare. The AG award was icing on the cake!"
    Clay Sanders, Horse Shoe NC

"Thanks for another great race. The course was in good condition, the weather was entertaining as always, and your volunteers were great as usual. As a fellow RD, I appreciate all the blood, sweat and passion it takes to put on this race."
    Greg Walker, Hendersonville NC

"This was my third Creeper. The trail was in excellent condition and, as usual, the race was very well planned and organized."
    Jerry McKee, Morganton NC

"The 2008 VCM was such fun, and the wonderful volunteers took great care of everyone on a chilly, rainy, windy day! Looking forward to next year ... and we're already planning to bring you cookies!"
    Fran Frazier, McLean VA

"I know the weather made it tough on your crew. Hats off to them. The Virginia Creeper Marathon was the best managed race I have run (but I've only been racing 47 years)."
    R. B. Anderson, Jr., Bland VA

"I just wanted to say how much I enjoyed the entire experience of my first marathon - despite the weather. I love the low-key aspect of the race, while still having all our 'needs' covered. I'm just glad I didn't have to carry that bandana! All your volunteers were TROOPERS to be out in that kind of weather for such a LONG time. I would highly recommend this race to anyone and will look forward to doing it again."
    Kim Wilson, Charlotte NC

"The Virginia Creeper is without a doubt the most beautiful course I've run. Thanks to all the great volunteers for standing out in the rain and for your encouragement along the course. I really enjoyed everything about this marathon. Thanks for a wonderful experience."
    Danny Staggs, Livingston TN

"Thanks so much to all your volunteers who did a great job and were so encouraging. As an early starter, the run in the dark was a pleasure ... that time in solitude was really nice. The Virginia Creeper will always be one of my favorite races in the country."
    Cliff Cartwright, Booneville MS

"What a fabulous race! Thanks to all the volunteers who remained cheerful, as promised, throughout the day, in spite of the raw weather! This was a great experience!"
    Micki Tanbouz, Hampstead NC

"Thanks so much for another wonderful Creeper experience. It was again a very special day. This course is so beautiful, and I love the surface. Every volunteer was cheerful and encouraging, which was very much appreciated."
    Carol Hawkens, Falls Church VA

"A beautiful course and terrific volunteers. Thank you again."
    Ray McCaslin, Hendersonville NC

"I just want you to know how much I enjoyed my First Marathon. The weather was very good - I like to run in a misty rain, and thought it was the perfect running temp. The course was super - I liked running on the dirt, and I think it was the most beautiful run I've ever done. The volunteers were wonderful, always smiling. I am so looking forward to running next year."
    Linda Cox, Travelers Rest SC
 

From www.marathonguide.com --

"A great race in a beautiful setting. Well organized without taking itself too seriously. Very little crowd, but they're raucous and supportive. The trail of crushed cinders is especially kind on the knees of us heavier runners. The best low-key marathon you'll ever run."
    G.K., Tennessee

"Being my first marathon, I don't have a comparison, but I can't imagine an event being any better. A great experience to be able to do this with my brother and my husband, and something I will never forget. Thanks to all the volunteers!"
    K.W., North Carolina

"An enjoyable marathon with minimal road under your feet. The trees, creeks, cows and birds made for good friends. Low key, low price, big thanks."
    S.F., USA

"This is a race I highly recommend. Because of the small number of participants there were times I was all alone and could take in the beauty of the course. The volunteers were great, and didn't let the wet weather dampen their spirits. Aid stations were well stocked. The entire course seemed pretty flat to me and I liked the soft running surface. I also liked passing by family members several times. I plan on returning to this one."
    D.S., Tennessee

"This event's 'low key' nature really helped keep the 'nerves' under control for this first timer. The course surface is very forgiving on the legs. The slope of the trail is very subtle and hardly noticeable. The out and back nature of the course made finishing the miles much easier. I focused on one course leg at a time and that really helped me from getting overwhelmed by the length of the race as a whole. And passing through the start/finish area four times makes it much easier for your family to enjoy the race with you. Above everything else, the beauty of the course is truly amazing. The landscape made the race more of an adventure than just a race. The trestles, the river, the trees, the trail itself, all make you want to keep going to see what is around the next bend. And the race staff was beyond belief. I'm afraid I may have been spoiled by this race."
    J.P., Tennessee

"If you love to run on well-groomed trails, don't mind running by yourself, and can mentally withstand passing the finish area four times before actually finishing, then this is the race for you. The low-key approach is matched with efficiency, friendliness, and incomparable organization. Keep this in mind if you are a first-timer or are looking to qualify for Boston."
    M.F., Pennsylvania

"The course is so scenic that you'll finish and want to run another loop. After a lot of pre-race rain and light drizzle during, the course was in great shape. The volunteers were the champions-of-the-day, braving the wet, cold conditions. Their support helped warm the 'sole' on a beautiful, chilly morning."
    P.B., North Carolina
 

"Despite the snafu of not finishing due to major hip issues, the race was gorgeous and the spirit of all the volunteers and assistants was terrific. I meant it when I said I want to come back next year for another shot at my 'first time' marathon."
    Michael Babbitt, Hillsborough NC

"This was my first marathon and was quite an experience. A super job by all the volunteers, who really made the difference. I will remember them and this day the rest of my life."
    Chris Glover, Kingsport TN

"I was the guy who showed up late. Thanks for letting me start anyway, and thanks for the fun course. I had a great race, and when I 'adjusted my time,' still ended up running my 2nd fastest marathon ever. I look forward to next year, and will be on time!"
    Kevin Townsend, Lebanon VA

"Thank you for letting me fulfill my dream of my first marathon. The whole experience could be summed up as 'outstanding' for me and my family. I am proud of your volunteers’ efforts. I will take lasting memories from my experience and hope to repeat better next year."
    Bhargav Perepa, Leesburg VA

"WOW! What a great event. No frills, as advertised, but why would you need them? With a beautiful, scenic, challenging course, spirited volunteers, a really cool paperweight, a $10 entry fee and the threat of the red bandana, what more do you need? Your event REALLY brings home what some are missing by only running the 'Biggies.' I didn't have my best time, but I had a GREAT time. Thanks for the temperate weather, the gentle grade changes, and for softening up the trail to save these old legs. Thanks to a great group of volunteers who were friendly enough to 'take in' my daughter as one of their own, which paid dividends each time I heard cheers of 'way to go, Stephanie's dad!' I guess what I really want to say is, thanks for a great day and a memory of a lifetime!"
    Steve Brandstetter, Wyoming OH

"Thanks for a very fun and professional event! Excellent support, weather (yes the rain was fun!) and well placed fig bars. The course was beautiful, especially near one turnaround, with so many bright yellow flowers in the cow pastures contrasting with the grey rainy sky. Awesome!"
    Annette Bednosky, Jefferson NC

"Thanks for such great support! Everyone was great and we had a good time. It was my first marathon, and tho not as good a time as my training runs, was a good experience. Can't say enough about the friendliness of the folks! We'll come back."
    Mary Dorsey, Durham NC

"I am delighted to have missed a larger marathon a few weeks earlier and to have lucked into your very special event. I absolutely loved the Virginia Creeper, even with the rain. It's a class act, and I can't thank you enough. I even made a Boston qualifying time Hope to make the Creeper again."
    Lance Gutierrez, Radford VA

"Thanks for a great day and a great marathon. It was great to be back again this year among friends old and new. The volunteers were great on the course and at the finish. They add so very much to our enjoyment in running the marathon - in fact I suppose it would be impossible to run without them."
    Cliff Cartwright, Booneville MS

"The race was well organized and we had a great time. Please let me know when we can sign up for '08! The Virginia Creeper Marathon is on our 'list' as one of the best!"
   Nancy Jo Morrison, Stephens City VA

"I had such a positive first marathon experience at the Creeper. The volunteers at all the stations were so encouraging and helpful, and the scenery every step of the way was incredible. I'm already making plans to return!"
    Carol Hawkens, Falls Church VA

"A wonderful experience. Volunteers, course, and even the weather were all great. I am recommending your race to all my friends. My paperweight sits proudly on papers on my desk."
    Eric Schneider, Los Angeles CA

From www.marathonguide.com --

"This was a great place to run my first marathon. I was an early starter, and they went out of their way to make sure I got started correctly and didn't miss any turns. Overall the course is beautiful. I even saw deer running on the course ahead of me! Even in the rain, supporters were out there cheering me on. Other runners were very supportive also."
    Mike Thomas, Hendersonville NC

"The spectators stuck around through the rain and were wonderful cheerleaders. The crew was amazing, a group with awesome southern hospitality! The course was interesting, and the area was beautiful. All in all, a great way to spend a weekend!"
   M.C., Pittsburgh PA

"I loved the Creeper, and didn't mind the out-and-backs on the forgiving dirt trail. I qualified for Boston, but might have to pass on that one to enjoy the Creeper again. This marathon is a model for what can and should be done more. No big-business sponsor in the race name, and a $10 entry fee! Great, friendly, fun."
    L.G., Radford VA

"Not sure what drove me to sign up for this marathon. Was it the name, the cost, the honest website, or the lure of a small, friendly marathon? The answer is probably a combination of all these factors. No matter the reasons, I will never second guess my decision to do so. I had the time of my life! The marathon was everything advertised and more. The course beautiful, the race staff enthused and energetic, the volunteers cheery and hospitable, and the other runners as 'real,' friendly and supportive as you'll find. If you are looking for big crowds, medals, t-shirts, post-race parties, loud music and entertainment, skip this one. If you are looking to have one of the most memorable experiences you'll ever have running a marathon, sign up now!"
    S.B., Wyoming OH
 

"This race is first rate all the way, from packet pickup at room check-in to the shuttle to/from the start/finish. The course is absolutely beautiful. The volunteers and crowd were awesome. I still can't believe it was only $10. It's blown away some larger races I've run away that were 3, 4 and 5 times that cost."
     Myron Kemp, Mechanicsville VA

"Thanks for putting on a great race. We really enjoyed it, but next time let's try and make it a bit cooler, okay? This was without a doubt the friendliest marathon we've ever run."
    Kevin and Kate Owen, Crozet VA

"Thanks for putting on such an awesome event! It was great to be able to come back to my hometown to complete my first marathon. It was a special moment I'll never forget, and it wouldn't have been possible without the efforts of all the volunteers. I truly don't think I could have kept going without their encouragement throughout."
    Angela Sullins, Herndon VA

"Thanks to all the race workers, volunteers, families, friends, fellow runners and walkers, for a very special event! As someone who has run many races in many parts of the world, I can honestly say that, tho I may have run better times, I can't remember having a better time! From start to finish your race was a complete joy. I was the runner who started dead last, over 5 minutes after the official start. I was using your race as my qualifier for Boston so imagine my dismay when I realized I probably wasn't going to achieve that goal. Little did I realize the adventure awaiting me. I’m not sure when it happened but somewhere along your route, I re-discovered everything I've ever learned and probably forgotten about my love of running and the beauty of being one with nature and my fellow man/woman. Fortunately, the running gods were looking favorably upon me. When it started to get too hot, a cloud blocked the sun and a slight drizzle cooled me off. When I was feeling despondent another runner came to my aid! In a happy ending, yes, my 3:29:36 was a Boston qualifier. However, when I proudly line up at the start of the Boston Marathon, if any runner asks me what race I used as a qualifier, I'm going to look them straight in the eye and say unashamedly that I'm only running Boston to make sure I'm fit for next year's Virginia Creeper!!"
    John Churns, El Segundo CA

"Thank you and all the wonderful volunteers for another fantastic Virginia Creeper Marathon! As always, it was great fun, and everyone was so friendly and encouraging. See you next year!"
    Fran Frazier, McLean VA

From www.marathonguide.com --

"This course is the perfect off-road running surface. The scenery changes from close-in woods to open fields and wooden bridges that cross the river. This year's race had unusually high temps, but this is as good as it gets for a pure running experience. Once you've done one (I have 3 under my belt), it is almost certain to become your favorite. These folks deserve accolades aplenty for this race. It's a keeper."
    Bob Ring, Harrisonburg VA

"Small in numbers, but large for the effort to make this race a success. Thanks, volunteers and spectators! Appreciated the late checkout at the Days Inn, too."
    Steve Scott, Jonesville VA

"The course is a bit harder than I expected, but the warm weather probably contributed to that. First time I've ever run a race through a field that actually has cows in it! Water stops were well-manned. This is a mellow race, where many runners actually stop at the water stops to pick up drinks, food, etc., and visit a little with the workers."
    Craig Smith, Cantrall IL

"The Creeper is an excellent race. Others have commented on the beauty of the course - an observation with which I fully agree. What is equally impressive is the race organization. The Creeper volunteers are wonderful. The aid stations were well placed and well stocked with water, Gatorade and cookies. The miles and turn-arounds were clearly marked. And pictures and results were posted within 24 hours. All this for $10! When can I sign up for next year?!"
    Eric McGlinchey, Fairfax VA

"A really pretty course on a very gently sloping trail. All the non-race folks on the trail that day were interested in the race and very supportive of the runners. This course does require you to be mentally tough. As a slow runner, I spent a lot of time in miles 11-17 virtually alone in the beautiful scenery, and I enjoyed the peaceful bucolic setting. Then it was back to two-way traffic and lots of encouragement. The race is perfectly organized. My packet awaited me at check-in at the host motel the night before the race. And late checkout was a boon! Aid stations were well placed and the volunteers were great. I especially enjoyed the folks at the "Oasis" who provided all sorts of goodies and a smile just before meeting the cows. For those pushing the envelope trying for a PB, parts of this course may be a challenge, but to this first-timer and slow runner, it seemed almost totally flat. I would highly recommend this to others if you are not looking for crowds."
    Patrick Donnelly, Winston-Salem NC
 

"Thanks for an awesome first-time marathon experience. I thoroughly enjoyed the event, and found the people and race organization to be fantastic. You and your team of volunteers did an excellent job! I plan on running the Creeper Marathon again next year!"
      Greg Bethard, Wytheville VA

"Besides Pikes Peak, this is the most beautiful marathon I've run. From the trolley shuttle to the start to the delicious baked goods at the end, it's a day I'll never forget."
      Evelyn Wardzinski, Morganton NC

"We just want you to know how much we appreciate the hard work put into the Virginia Creeper Marathon and your great volunteers. We appreciate your enthusiasm and the care you all put into this event. GOOD JOB!"
      Ray and Gail McCaslin, Hendersonville NC

"The marathon was great fun - all the wonderful volunteers put on a fantastic event! Your influence on Mother Nature was particularly impressive ... it was the perfect day to enjoy the Virginia Creeper Trail."
      Fran Frazier, McLean VA

"Thanks for such a great race. Everyone connected with the race was so kind. The aid stations were like an oasis that I looked forward to each time by. I can't wait till next year."
      Melanie Mikusa, Morganton NC

"Great fun! Thanks for all the hard work and thanks to all the volunteers. I am sending a link of your website to some of the trail runners up here to let them know what a great event this is."
      Sean O'Connor, Fairfield CT

"Thanks for a beautifully run race, great scenery, fantastic volunteers, and the homemade goodies were to die for. What a wonderful experience even if I did finish 89th out of 100. When you're slow there is no pressure and the experience can be enjoyed so much."
      Melissa McCulloch, Arden NC

"Thanks so much for a challenging and beautiful marathon, and for being so welcoming and encouraging to everyone who ran it and volunteered to help. My mom and mom-in-law had a really good time handing out drinks and thought it all was terrific. What a day! It sounds like maybe that finally made up for the snowy experience folks had in 2003. Or maybe not. And I was running this marathon for a good friend who has been battling cancer and who had major surgery the Friday prior to the race. What a special experience it was to run in the midst of such a positive atmosphere and beautiful place to honor someone who has gone through so much. Thanks again."
      Christina Jacob, Asheville NC

"A great, intimate race. If you like marathons small and cozy, the Creeper should be on your list of hafta do's. SW Virginia is a beautiful place to visit. I got to see downtown Abingdon, the country and the forest, lots of cows, horses, goats, farms, rivers, streams, beaver dams, moss-covered trees, wooden trestles and mountains. I doubt my throw-away camera will do any of it justice. A wonderful time."
   Shannon Police, Bronx NY

"It was a beautiful day to go running in the woods. It just seems I keep falling in mud puddles! Thanks so much to all for your hard work."
   Cliff Cartwright, Booneville MS

From www.marathonguide.com --

"If you are playing the 'run a marathon in all 50 states' game (as were most of the folks I talked to after the race), this has to be your Virginia race. The scenery was absolutely spectacular, the most beautiful of any race I have run. An organized, fun race – all for a $10 entry fee! This is a must do.
     M. A. Komanecky, Cincinnati OH

"1) Director terrific, helpful, fun. Cohorts equally helpful and pleasant. Zero complaints, zero suggestions. 2) Runners, not that many spectators, but everyone happy. Much of run is in the quiet woods. 3) Trail itself well manicured and even. Course rarely flat, but no hill was severe. A good challenge and clearly different from running the seashore marathons. 4) Scenery was gentle, quiet woods, a modest canyon with a stream and a river below, well kept area. All in all a pleasant run. Town of Abingdon represents pleasant Americana."
    Donald Kienz, Pennsylvania

"I ran the Creeper as a birthday present to myself and as a long training run in preparation for Boston. The beauty of the trail and the wonder of traversing rivers and valleys on the restored railroad trestles make the run unique and enjoyable. Enthusiastic race director, energetic race supporters and freshly baked treats at the finish make this an event to remember. As if the race needed more to garner my recommendation, I received a "happy birthday" at the finish line – that certainly 'iced the cake'."
    J. P., Glen Carbon IL

"Thank you and all of the volunteers for a wonderful, low key race event. I had a great time and hope to come back next year."
   Maureen Kavanagh, Asheville NC

"Everyone is real nice and the course is pretty."
   Rosemary Evans, Flemingsburg KY

"A great marathon. It was well organized and all the workers were friendly and helpful. The course is beautiful. My family found the trail to be a great place for spectators to enjoy while I ran."
   Gary Fulton, Raleigh NC

"VCM was such fun - terrific event, wonderful volunteers, perfect weather, incredible setting."
   Fran Frazier, McLean VA

"Thank all involved for all the fun I had. The course was really beautiful and very interesting. You have a really unique marathon there."
   Bill Whipp, Cincinnati OH

"A great race. This is now officially my favorite course. Beautiful course, great weather, and great support. I'm very glad I was there. I will definitely be back."
   Bob Ring, Harrisonburg VA

"As usual a great race. Well organized, great weather, great group of workers... what more can you ask for? It feels like you put this on just for me."
   Jerry Anderson, Greeneville TN

"Thanks for another great race in 2004. All of your volunteers provided great support."
   Michael Stowe, Blacksburg VA

"Another fantastic marathon experience. The volunteers at the water tables and turnarounds are most enthusiastic and friendly. The course is one of the most scenic I have ever run."
   William Catron, Fredericksburg VA

From www.marathonguide.com --

"One of the prettiest courses I've ever run. Beautiful scenery, friendly people (and cows!). Very well organized. Hats off for a job well done."
    Deborah McGee, Fredericksburg VA

"Gorgeous course, enthusiastic spectators, and an amazing group of volunteers ... consistently good aid stations and a bounty of post race snacks...for an unbeatable price!"
    R. K. from Kentucky

"Great race, one of the best I've ever run. They get all the details right. The course is excellent, and surprisingly challenging. Very scenic. The wooden trestles (bridges) were a lot of fun. The paperweight instead of a t-shirt is a terrific idea. And $10 entry fee? It's a better race than 90% of the marathons that cost $75 or more! This is a race made for runners, not for those looking for a fireworks show or rock bands or Disney characters in costume (blech)."
    Tom B. from Baltimore MD

"The Virginia Creeper Trail is a beautiful place to run and great place for spectators. Well organized, the volunteers are very friendly, and the home baked goodies at the finish were great. The late checkout at the host motel is a nice feature. Advertised as low frills, but the hospitality, the paperweight with race logo, and the course make it a first class marathon."
    G. F. from Raleigh NC

"Great for a first time marathoner. The soft trail is easy on the joints, the volunteers are a never-ending pool of support, and the other runners are so encouraging to one another! I'm ready to sign up for next year's event now!"
    J. B. from Houston TX

"Some of the nicest runners and organizers you will ever meet, great course support, beautiful scenery, a ridiculously low entry fee, and last but certainly not least, an amazing assortment of homemade baked goodies at the finish line. How can you NOT run this one?"
   M.W., Cary NC

 

"I really enjoyed the marathon (snow too!!). This will be one I will remember. It was nice to get away from the traffic and the trail is beautiful."
    Lynn Burnett, Livingston TN

"You have a real nice race. Extra special thanks to those aid station folks and helpers on a day like that!"
    John Simonsen, Johnson City TN

"What a nice event! I have not had this much fun since I ran cross country in high school (a very long time ago). My compliments to everyone who had a part in making this such a terrific success."
    Frank Weider, Union KY

"Thanks to you and your crew for all of your hard work to pull off the 2003 VCM under trying circumstances. It was by far the toughest -- and slowest -- of the four marathons I've completed, but also the most memorable."
    Michael Stowe, Blacksburg VA

"Thank you again for a fabulous first marathon! I will definitely do this again. Thanks for a GREAT RACE DAY."
    Cher Eaves, Powderly KY

"Even though the weather was lousy it was still a great race. Your support staff were really great to stand out in the weather at the various aid stations. I am sure all the runners would join me in thanking you and all your staff for a well run race." 
    Chet Rogers, Pittsboro NC

"I really enjoyed the marathon. As predicted, the course was beautiful (I'd like to see the green version some time), and the people were friendly. I'm really glad I did the long drive to get there. Please thank all the great volunteers."
    Karen Mitchell, York PA

"It was a great run. I can't tell you how much I enjoyed it. Thanks to all the volunteers for their support. The course was great."
    Byrd Watts, Marion NC

"Truly a great race ... well, it wasn't a great race as I was running the last of it or at the end, but now, two days later, it was great."
    Jerry Anderson, Greeneville TN

"You and your crew put on an excellent event. I'll bet you're going to have to turn away more and more in coming years as people learn about the Creeper."
    Chuck Bryant, Miami FL

"A fantastic race experience. Your volunteers were very gracious and helpful and the support on the course wonderful. Your course was beautiful, just like all the comments I'd read. A feast for the eyes and ears and soft on the feet. All in all, an experience which was satisfying for the body, mind and soul."
    Emmanuel Sideris, Pittsburgh PA

"Despite the unusual weather, the wife and I had a great time and will have fond memories of everything that happened Sunday. The volunteers out on the trail were wonderful to the participants as well."
    Greg Enloe, Asheville NC

"This marathon is such a personal, friendly and fun event. Thank you for arranging such glorious snow. I especially enjoyed watching the group of deer running through the snow. The scenery was incredible! Thank you to all the staff who helped make this marathon possible."
    Bencita Moore, Boone NC

"Appreciate your efforts. Fulfilled one of my wishes: To run a marathon in the snow. It was great. For $10 I feel I cheated you. I ate more fig newtons than that."
    Doug Ferriss, Charlotte NC

"Thank you so much for such a wonderful day. I am hoping to come back next year (maybe better weather) and see if I can run a little faster. It was a nice course with beautiful scenery and the nicest volunteers!"
   Karen Bolton, Salem VA

"Thanks to the State of Franklin Track Club for a great marathon. It was my second slowest time, but not too bad considering the weather."
   Jon Parce, Hendersonville NC

"A scenic course with plenty of aid stations and friendly volunteers. The soft trail was easy on the feet although it was muddy in spots. A great race. I enjoyed the course and Southern hospitality immensely. No hills, cool temps, one happy Yankee."
   Mike Brooks, Danville ME

>From www.marathonguide.com --

"I wanted my second marathon to be something memorable and unique. I got that and a lot more. Support was great (thanks for waiting in the cold on us, volunteers!). Beautiful snow scenes, bridges and rivers were just around every bend. It was a visual overload for me and all who braved the weather. Great job by all. All marathons can only hope to be this good."
    Paul Chappin, Statesville NC

"An outstanding marathon! My wife and I chose the VCM as our first marathon and it was perfect! We would do it all over again, even with the inches of snow!! It's true it is a low frills marathon - but you don't need frills when you have the awesome opportunity to run along the beautiful Virginia Creeper Trail. It is truly over the river and through the woods ... except you might have to shoo a cow out of the way."
   Craig Cutforth, Louisville CO

“I do not usually do the same marathon twice but I may make an exception for this one!!! The course was scenic and really great, the aid stations were fantastic and your hospitality was outstanding!!!!”
    Chet Rogers, Pittsboro NC

“The beautiful course was all it was made out to be. The oatmeal cookies after the race were great!!!”
    Channing Roush, Charlotte NC 

“I had a great time and hope to be able to come back next year!”
    Bernie Hall, Asheboro NC

“It felt very peaceful to be connected to such beautiful surroundings.”
    Dorn Kile, Clinton TN

“I am very happy I made the Virginia Creeper Marathon my first marathon! I wanted my first to be memorable and special, and it was. Very friendly, helpful, organized and well managed. Thank you for making this happen at such a beautiful trail."
    Bencita Moore, Boone NC

“It was a wonderful marathon. The course is beautiful, and I plan to come back next year.”
    Greg Walker, Hendersonville NC

“GREAT RACE! This was our 47th marathon in 33 states, and yours is by far one of the most beautiful, well organized, friendly, etc. We can't say enough good things.”
    Geri O’Krepki, Hammond LA

“I really enjoyed the whole day, from the great scenery to a very well organized race. I just wish that other races could be as enjoyable as this one.”
    George (Toby) Nelson, Cos Cob CT

“A uniquely beautiful race course! All the folks involved were extremely friendly and helpful. WHAT A WONDERFUL EXPERIENCE! I hope you don't mind if I brag to all my running friends about your race. I have told them my time was slow because I stopped to enjoy all the scenery!”
    William Catron, Fredericksburg VA

“Thanks for making this birthday my best ever! I am finding I don't want to spread the word too much about the beauty and uniqueness of the Creeper because it might bring too many folks there. I will be floating on clouds of euphoria for a long time to come!”
    Katherine McCrea, Nashville TN

“Many thanks for your hospitality and kindness. The run was wonderful, and the people were even better. This was easily one of the most picturesque of the 21 marathons I've run.”
    David Swenson, Des Moines IA

"I enjoyed the race very much. Good scenery, and the trail was easy on my knees."
    Scott Miller, Ravenswood WV

"I had a swell time and did not hurt as badly the day after because of the nice soft trail surface - fun all around!"
    Rebecca Kavage, Blacksburg VA

"What a beautiful course!! A great race. Look for me next year!!"
    Monika Bracken, Castleton VA

From web site www.marathonguide.com --

"This race is a must for the spring race calendar. Volunteers for this race are top-notch."
     Larry Miller, Blacksburg VA

"Wonderful volunteers, friendly town. The course is beautiful. It's very easy to make a nice trip out of this race. Great one to do some winter training for."
    Shannon Police, Stamford CT

"The Creeper Trail has the best scenery I've ever run in for a marathon, or for any race. I enjoyed the low-key atmosphere as compared with most other races. The people were friendly, the race well-run. The beautiful surroundings more than made up for the conditions!"
    Bernie Hall, Asheboro NC

"I have never run a prettier course. Everyone I met was gracious and encouraging; the quality of fans more than made up for the quantity. I fell twice, not because the trail was particularly difficult but because the scenery was so distracting. What a great experience."
      A runner from Lake Jackson TX

"Well organized, well conducted race. I thoroughly enjoyed the surface and the scenery."
       Jerry McKee, Morganton NC

"A trail run that showcases the beauty of Virginia. The people were friendly, and it was well-organized for being such a small race. Definitely do it!"
       Mikki Hebl, Houston TX

"The volunteers did a great job! My first marathon, quite memorable."
               Sudesh Kannan, Hendersonville NC