This was a really nice course. Probably one of the more pleasantly scenic ones. The housing was beautiful and you got to run along the board walk.. It was a very chilly (windy) run, so I would wear a light long sleeved top (since you'll be by the waters) The expo and post-marathon snacks were a bit weak though: two pieces of salt water taffy, a bread stick from panera, a banana, and a granola bar. I hate to sound like a brat, but you burn like 2500 calories running one of those mofos. On top of that, I very politely asked for an extra banana and the volunteer gave me an attitude. She should be happy I even asked, since people generally would have just grabbed and left. I guess I just got overly spoiled at the other ones. Then only reason why I'm not throwing a fit because I THINK this is probably one of the few marathons were the money goes to some good cause - most are for profit now. The vendors at the expo weren't all that - but there have been much much worse. They kept you very well hydrated at the water stations (hydration station every mile which is standard) read more

New Jersey Marathon - Races & Competitions Near Me - Oceanport, New Jersey

I have a love-hate relationship with this race, because on the one hand, I beat my personal best half-marathon time running it. But on the other, the course is really not that exciting, and therefore not worth what you pay. While the course is flat, it's mostly residential and you only get to experience the boardwalk for about the last 2 miles. As for registration, I paid $105 to register in 2016. I got injured about 2 months before the race and fortunately, the insurance gave me the option to either cancel or else defer. Unfortunately, canceling required a doctor's note, which meant a $30 co-pay for me. The deferral fee, however, cost the same, bringing my 2017 half marathon total up to $135. About 2 weeks before the race, I was sent an email stating that I still needed to actually register for the race. Not a local, I was forced to pay $25 for same day packet pick up and another $5 just to park, bringing my 2017 half marathon total up to $165. Was it worth it? No. The shirt was okay, but nothing special. There was no food that I saw before the race and very limited food at the end. At least they had space blankets to keep you warm. If I had to do one thing over again (besides picking a different half marathon), I would have not fell for the $5 parking scam. Do yourself a favor and save the money. They don't even ask for your receipt. read more

The NJ half is one of the largest and best organized marathon and half marathon races in the state, and from those I've done, even the whole Northeast Region. The start line is at the large Monmouth horse track which has plenty of parking, though it's a crime they charge for parking considering the race fee and the fact that you have to take a shuttle back to your car at the end! The space does allow for easy packet pickup and decent restroom lines and cleanliness though. The start line is unique with music blaring and a start from the race track bugler. The corrals are also well organized and monitored so you don't get stuck behind many slower runners. The route is a nice mix through some residential areas, downtown Long Branch, and finishing with two miles along the oceanfront boardwalk. In 2016 it was sadly exceptionally cold and pouring, but spirits stayed high. As a result, the after race celebrations were tuned down, but they seemed like they'd be more fun on warm days. The medal is awesome and the shirts are ok. There is also a ton of post race snacks, including even salt water taffy for a unique shore twist. The downside is that ending fairly far from the start meant taking a crowded school bus shuttle back and having to wait in the rain for the shuttle for a while. The shuttle also got exceptionally steamy from the damp runners which was a bit unpleasant. The course is absolutely the fastest and flattest one I've run though with hardly any hills. read more

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