Grandma's or C-U Illinois Marathon?

[goldfinch]

I did Grandma's in 2003. I would highly recommend it. It's fairly flat. In fact, I can't remember much elevation at all. I agree with goldfinch about the weather. The year I ran it, it was slightly humid but not unbearable. It's a top-notch marathon - extremely well-organized.

As it follows the lake there isn't much elevation change. At about mile 22 or 23 is "lemon drop hill" which isn't that big but given where it is in the race it can be difficult.

If the wind is from the northeast you will have the wind at your back and it be a cool run. If the wind is westerly it may be much warmer and a harder go. I am told that the weather has been warmer the last few years, making the race more difficult. It is very hard to predict the weather as it is so dependent on whether the wind will be off the lake.

Hotels book up fast and are expensive.

Duluth is a beautiful town and the race route is nice.