New Jersey Marathon

Shortcomings...
This race is on pricey side so if you plan on running it, it's a better value if you register early. Surprised their were not more booths at expo based on volume of runners expected. Parking & traffic is bit of a pain. Drive early. Volunteers and police did not know where the bus drop off would be after the race since the finish is 2.5 miles from the start. It was unfortunate that at mile 12.5, the soloist entertainer was playing a slow depressing song when I passed after 100 minutes of running. I could tell the entertainer was not a runner and clueless on what the running audience would like to hear when they are in the home stretch. Food after finish could have been a little better.

One major negative to prevent a high rating: Waited an hour on line from 9am to 10am for the buses to arrive at finish line. I heard that the buses got caught behind the marathon runners. Not sure why the buses were not there when the baggage/gear check trucks arrived after the start of half marathon.

Major positives: Organizers had a men's and women's changing tents at the finish line after you picked up your gear. It was awesome to get out of wet clothes right away. The 2014 Half Marathon Finisher medal is really great and heavy. Photographers were friendly and plentiful.
Upsides: Tech shirt was great, in fact I ran in it & no issues. Packet pickup went smoothly. Race course is flat and organized. Post race activities was festive. I prefer running races that I have never run before so that is why I would not consider attending this race next year.