I’m looking for a flat/fast marathon on the east coast the weekend of March 17-18. That weekend is pretty non negotiable so that’s why I’ve narrowed it down to these 3. Goal time is sub 2:35.
My PR (2:31) is actually from Shamrock several years ago, so I am pretty familiar with it. I also know they flipped the course this year. It is probably my top choice when just looking at all the races as a race, but the travel logistics now seem to be the worst of all 3. I’d probably have to fly into Dulles and drive 3 hours to VA Beach that Friday or Saturday because my local airport no longer has direct flights to Newport News or Norfolk or even Richmond.
The travel logistics of the other two options seem more reasonable. I can get a direct flight into Raleigh. Short drive to Cary for Tobacco Road... longer drive to wrightsville but not 3 hours.
I guess I am looking to be convinced either that one of the logistically better options is just as good of an option to run fast at as Shamrock or that Shamrock would be worth the extra travel logistics.
Tobacco Road seems promising. I just don’t know about having to run most of the race on a trail that seems to have varying surfaces and it could be narrow with people coming out and back on both sides.
I was originally intrigued by Wrightsville Beach, but became less so after looking more closely at the course. Looks like a few confusing loops that are repeated in different directions and it seems mostly flat but with some gain right at the end.
Anyway, any thoughts or contributions are appreciated.