Heart of America Marathon

I decided to run this marathon in 2004 as my first marathon and have run every year since. This course has 6 major hills but that shouldn’t scare anyone. The first half is mostly downhill which you can use to your advantage. I’ve improved my time every year and am only 2 minutes slower than my PR on flatter courses.
This course is a great first marathon if you are prepared to run a few hills. I find this marathon much lower stress than larger marathons due to the smaller field. You won’t find the spectators at larger marathons, but there are still enthusiastic spectators. The cost is only $25 and it is a great small marathon. For $25, this marathon can’t be beat. It’s a challenging, fun, and scenic course.

How many marathons cost $25? Not many. But don’t let that fool you. Heart of America may have a cheap entry fee but it is rich in what it has to offer. Great race support, nice finisher medals, sweet plaques for age groupers and one crazy course are all superb amenities. The overall atmosphere is one that is cozy in nature. Even if you are a stranger to Columbia, you’ll be surrounded by friends by the end of the race… as long as you survive!
For more information visit the Heart of America Website at http://ctc.coin.org/hoa/index.htm