What is this year’s course going to be? This is the number one question asked at all of the expos and in-training lectures on the Detroit Free Press/Flagstar Bank International Marathon presented by Casino Windsor. While much of the course from the past two years will remain the same the answer is still to be determined. What is important about the course to runners?

The last issue of Marathon and Beyond gave a glowing review of the Detroit/Windsor Marathon and its course. The magazine ranked the event in the top ten of marathons it has reviewed. The course scored 372 points out of a possible 400. So what does M&B consider when determining this score?

Degree of Difficulty: Most runners want a flat, fast course that will produce personal bests or qualify them for Boston. Races, like St. George, Utah or Las Vegas, attract sell out registrations because they run mostly downhill. While Chicago produces world record performances from its course, its shear size (35,000 entrants) makes it difficult for the middle of the pack runner to run fast times even with the chip timed start. The Ambassador Bridge is the only real hill in Detroit’s course and that occurs at mile two, early enough to be barely noticed.

Certified: USATF certifies courses through state approved course measurers. This helps to unsure accurate times and at least some form of comparison to other courses. Boston Marathon qualification must come from a certified course.

Quality of Road Surface: Smooth blacktop roads are the ideal surface for fast times and enjoyable runs. For the most part, Detroit has good roads to race on. The exception is the bricks on Michigan Avenue, which is less than half a mile of the course. The New York City Marathon has one of the roughest surfaces whose only advantage is that it forces you to keep your head down and focus on your running.

Adequate mile and directional markers: Detroit/Windsor’s Marathon prides itself on its organization. Mile markers are hand painted on the street and split timers stand behind each Fastsign’s tent markers affixed with giant balloons.

Aid Stations: D/W is one of the very few marathons that have water/energy drink stations every mile. This year, they will improve on their morale stations by adding one almost every mile to inspire runners.

Medical Coverage: Hamm operators, EMS and bicycle units cover the course in Detroit and Windsor. In addition Wayne State Medical Students and Providence Hospital staff provide medical assistance on the course and at the finish line to help runners that get into trouble.

Race Communications: Every D/W Marathon staff member is equipped with a cell phone and pocket list of key problem solvers to address issues as they arise.

Accessibility to family and friends: A new finish line area this year will offer a clear view of runners crossing the finish line and improve the ability to reach them afterwards.

Weather: Detroit has been blessed with great weather for all but a few of its 23 marathons. October has typically been the best month for marathons to be held.

Landmarks: Detroit offers one of the most diverse courses in the world. The bridge, tunnel, view of the riverfronts, Belle Isle, Comerica Park and Casinos make it a magical marathon.

Tip of the Week: races help you to understand pace and know the pre race routine. They are also an opportunity to meet people with common interests

Upcoming Race of the Week: August 04, 6 PM Allen Park Street Fair 8km, Call 734 282 1101.
This year’s RoadRunner Classic usually held on July 21^st has been cancelled.