Lost Dutchman Marathon 2013
We think Lost Dutchman Marathon is a terrific event, but don't just take our word for it. Every year we get lots of positive feedback. See what runners from around the country have had to say about our race.
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Lost Dutchman 2013 Feedback
What's not to like about the LDM? Excellent scenery Terrific volunteers And organized like a NASA countdown!
Jim Pettis - Prineville, OR
I'm used to races through cities with spectators cheering along the way. This was a beautiful course and change of pace. The water stops were plentiful and the volunteers were awesome! I'm so glad I was able to add this to my race book!
Trena Roudebush - Indianapolis, IN
You guys rock! Always a great race! Love that you are super organized, signs and parking is easy, you start on time (huge win!) and you support the runners through the entire course! The shirts and medals rock - the facebook tracking of the runners worked pretty good - except it didn't show the finish but all is all an excellent race! Can't wait to run again next year!!!! Don't change a thing!
Anna Schettino - Scottsdale
What an awesome event. Well planned and executed by the organizers. The on course help was excellent and the finish area was easy to navigate. I love the high quality shirt and medal. The starting line area with fires and the sunrise over the mountains was breath taking. I will never forget my LDM experience. Thank you.
Paul Gannon - Nine Mile Falls, WA
Loved the 8km trail race - the gold age group medal was neat! Wonderful variety of food at finish. Great venue, lots of volunteers, easy logistics, perfect weather. One of the best events ever. Thank you!
Sally Carpenter - NB Canada
Well done Lost Dutchman Marathon staff and volunteers. It was a great experience for our family.
Donna Boschma - Gold Canyon, AZ
This was a very organized event. I loved everything, weather, course, event staff and volunteers. I came from Washington State for this run and I will definitely come back next year. Thank you for putting on a great event.
Theresa Vichich-Weber, Belfair, WA
Great event beginning with the Web-site - Expo - running the half marathon. I have run close to fifty marathons and forty half marathons. This course and organization ranks right at the top. Congratulations to the Race Organizer, volunteers and traffic control. Awesome job by everyone. Am already planning on doing the full marathon next year.
Jim Schnitzler - Los Lunas, NM
Thanks for an awesome, sunny weather race! It was well organized, had lots of volunteers and we had a great day. We'll be back for sure!
Robin Osborn - Puyallup, WA
I've run the 10K previously, and jumped at the chance to run (well, walk) the 8K with my 69 year old mom this year! Great fun...so well organized, beautiful scenery. Thank you!
Janine Solley - Apache Junction, AZ
I had such a great experience. Everyone was very nice and supportive. The spectators were wonderful. Thanks for organizing such an amazing race!
Claudale Cavanaugh- Wichita, Kansas
Excellent overall again!! Keep up the hard, good work and those wonderful medals are the best!!
Scott Fisher - Apache Junction
Thank you and all the wonderful volunteers for making my first marathon unforgettable!!!
Amy C. - Gilbert, AZ
Class Act event!
Brandee - Mesa, AZ
I loved the 'base camp' set up before the start. The warming fires was a nice way to congregate and chat with other runners. The course was nice, I liked the views of the mountains off in the distance. Lots of long straight stretches with gradual hills, which can be a bit mentally tough. Overall - very nice marathon.
Mary - Waukesha, WI
I wanted to compliment you on a very well-run race, starting with the parking. I've never been to an event where the parking was that organized! You had ample shuttles with very polite drivers. The bag drop-off was easy and start and finish went very smoothly. All the volunteers on the course were awesome! You and your crew deserve a lot of credit!
Carol Hern - Gilbert, AZ
I ran the Rock n Roll Pasadena (CA) 2012 and was scheduled again for 2013, but finances kept me home. As an alternative I entered the LDM which happens the same weekend as Pasadena. Guess what? I'll be back next year. Great race, organization, and beautiful medals. Very satisfied, Thanks
Norman Adson - Mesa, Az
This was my first year running LDM and it was absolutely fantastic! The course was breathtaking and the volunteers were wonderful! This was one of the most organized events that I have been to. I will be back next year for sure!!
Laura Mostosky - Mesa, AZ
The official volunteers and the unofficial locals are great - they've run marathons themselves, one can tell. Plenty of Vaseline offered all along the course! Thin Mint cookies and pretzels at (I think) mile 17 got me to the finish.
Mark Saxton - Dallas, TX
Well done, mates! An excellent job in all aspects. This was my 20th event and definitely one of my most memorable even though I didn't do as well as I expected. The start area setting is unsurpassed ant the first six miles will always stand out in my mind.
Powel Crosley - Edmonton, AB Canada
Loved the event like I do every year! Keep up the great work!! Thank you for having such great support out there on the course, that is the most important to get us to the finish and you nail that each year!!! I fly from OR to AZ every year to do this race and I plan on doing it forever! It is the only marathon I come back to each year, thank you for making it so special!
Melissa Williams - Beaverton, OR
Awesome Marathon start and first 6 miles, don't change a thing about that! Loved the bus pick-up right from my hotel (Best Western). Excellent course support and volunteers! Excellent traffic control. I liked the balloon over the finish line - able to see it from 2 miles away.
Ralph Brown - Naperville IL
One of the best marathons I have run. Beautiful course. Excellent support.
Corine Knudsen - Olympia, WA
LDM was my first marathon in 2009. I wanted to run it again because of that great experience and I was not disappointed. 2013 LDM was my 19th marathon and the only one that I have done twice. Love the medal!
Ray Addington - Scottsdale AZ
Super race - well organized - 2nd race - did 8K last year!
Barry Calder - Sherwood Park AB Canada
So many things done well...many water stations and port-a-potties. The gold miner, burro, and card player photo opps were awesome. Appreciated the no-meat burritos. Good race map and nice to have the race info packet at the Gold Canyon Golf resort. Overall, a wonderful destination event with easy logistics, beautiful views, and phenomenal weather. Given the opportunity, I would definitely do it again. Thank you, thank you, thank you.
Sarah Wasson - Fort Collins, CO
I came for Pennsylvania to run the half with a great friend from college and high school. The most organized race I have run. Scenery was awesome. The best part: I set a PR!!!
Brian Simpson - St Marys, PA
Lost Dutchman Marathon is a very nice marathon to run. Very well organized. Beautiful scenery, very friendly volunteers and had great weather to enjoy it all. For a small marathon, I am impressed with the very nice medal. Many thanks for the wonderful experience from Saskatchewan Canada.
Louis Baillargeon - Saskatoon Saskatchewan Canada
I do a destination marathon twice a year. This is a wonderful destination and a great marathon. The course is picturesque and the runner support and amenities along the route were excellent. The fires at the start were a nice touch as we awaited the starting gun. The Superstition Mountains, giant Saguaros and a wide dirt trail at the beginning--very nice.
Jim Buck - El Sobrante, CA
A really strong option for East Coasters looking for a February race. While this was mostly a road marathon, I really loved being able to run not just the first 10k or so on trail, but also much of the last half of the course, where generally well-graded gravel shoulders were a welcome relief to the asphalt. Strong fan support and well-stocked aid stations and a minimum of traffic were major plusses.
Jim Roche - Alexandria, VA
This race was all I expected and more! Great volunteer support, beautiful views of the mountain range! Fun course with just enough rollers to keep it challenging! Loved "the wall"! I will likely do this event again in the future!
Lisa B - Hilbert WI
I love this race for many reasons, one of which is that the staff and volunteers are great. Everyone was so positive and kind, helping with making sure every need was met. I looked forward to seeing who would be at each water stop and getting lots of encouragement. The race is very well organized, I had such a great experience before the race start, warming by the fire. I also truly love the course, it is awe inspiring. I live just outside of Houston and did not train on any kind of hills, but the days of screaming quad soreness are worth it to see the sunrise at the top of the Trailhead. There were several points in the race where I would just focus on the beauty of the mountains and desert.
Elizabeth Hayward - Kingwood, TX
This marathon is nothing short of spectacular. I can't be effusive enough in praise. This was a great course and the aid stations and volunteers were fantastic. A bonus was the quantity of aid stations and knowing that there would be port-a-potties at each. Speaking of the port-a-potties this is the first running event I have attended where the quantity of port-a-potties exceeded demand, usually there are long lines. The RD, staff, and volunteers are top notch. This had the feeling and energy of a small marathon but the preparation amenities provided the runners were worthy of a marathon twice it's size.
Patrick Delaney - Wheatland, CA
I was extremely impressed with how well the race was organized and how smoothly things went on race day from the rodeo grounds shuttle, to the start of each event, to the post race activities. The extra perk of having names on race bibs was wonderful because spectators were cheering for all runners by name, which was extremely encouraging during the second half of the run and when we running toward the finish line. My entire family went to the event this year, and two of us raced. Without a doubt, we will be back next year, and more members of my family will be running in 2014. Thanks for an incredible, memorable race experience that I will never forget!
Maria Strevay - Vail, AZ
Excellent overall again!! Keep up the hard, good work and those wonderful medals are the best!!
Scott Fisher - Apache Junction
I am from Ontario Canada and winter in Mesa. I really enjoyed the LDM experience. I have no complaints. Everyone was friendly and helpful. I will be back next year for sure. Thank You for a great experience.
Patricia Webb - Gores Landing, Ontario Canada
This was my 3rd LDM and once again hats off to the organizers for another fantastic race! And too the best group of marathoners! See you next year!
Ramon Medina - Phoenix, AZ
Well organized, good traffic and parking management. No waiting in traffic.
Sal Barlett - Scottsdale, AZ
Highly organized, amazing volunteers, and extremely supportive police and course marshals -- this is one of my favorite all-time running events. I plan to return next year!
Kevin Dumcum - Phoenix, AZ
Outstanding job from the start to the finish. Everyone was very friendly and the course was great.
Pedro Corrales - Phoenix
My third year running the 8k and I must say that LDM has some of the friendliest and most helpful volunteers and staff out any race I've been too.
Andrew Frost - Apache Junction
This was a beautiful destination and a great race! Great race direction and enthusiastic support along the route.
Jim Buck - California
Congratulations on another incredible event!! The group I was with all marveled at the event and how well organized it was. Please thank all who worked on it.
Roger Hacker - City of Apache Junction
Awesome weather, unique finisher's medal, friendly volunteers, perfect conditions for the race, got to meet Teton Ken, Jacob Waltz, and sat in on a poker game where the deer and antelope play!!!!
William McGowan - East Mesa, AZ
This was my first Lost Dutchman Marathon; I did the 8K Trail Run (also my first trail run). The course was very easy to maneuver and quite scenic, as well. I'll definitely be back next year, possibly doing either the 10K or the 1/2 Marathon!
Melody Oliver - Mesa, AZ
It was just perfect! I can't wait to do it again next year. Thanks for having lots of porta potties! There's nothing worse than standing in a long line waiting to start a race. The post race food was great. I loved the burritos! The volunteers were excellent and very friendly. The course is beautiful. Watching the sun coming up over the Superstition Mountains was the icing on the cake. Overall, I would say that this was one of the best organized races I have ever done.
Karen Simon -Gilbert AZ
Thanks again for an amazing experience. Your event organization is second to none and the event volunteers are amazing. I am already looking forward to next year.
Terry Petko - Mesa, AZ
Awesome event for individuals that are establishing physical fitness goals for themselves. Stress free, very supportive environment to spread your wings.
John Celletti - Gold Canyon AZ
1st time for the Lost Dutchman. Great experience, will tell friends of the best race I've enjoyed in a long time. Many thanks to all who helped put it together.
John Paskitti - Gilbert, Az.
Great, fun race. As usual a well done event. Volunteers were great. An array of good food at finish event.
Janet Johnson - Gold Canyon, AZ
Thank you for another excellent race! I ran the half marathon in 2011--the year of rain and cold! However, in spite of the weather, it was a very fun race. This year, my son and I ran the 10K together. We are already marking the calendar for next year! I would also like to express my thanks to Raceplace Timing. I had questions regarding my finish time and they graciously checked into the matter for me. Thank you for another great LDM!
Danielle Mychajlonka - Gilbert, AZ
Just a gorgeous setting with matching weather. This is one of the most run-able courses I've been on. It's really a good half marathon for setting a PR.
Robin Blankenbaker - Flagstaff, AZ
The donut holes on the course were fantastic.
Russ Petelle - Derby Line, VT
This was the first time I had ever ran in an event like this and I am proud to say that LDM 8k was my first! I had more fun than I could have ever imagined and never felt lost in anything I had to do or had to go!
Ronni Stewart - Apache Junction
1st half-marathon for me. There is a lot of activity and it is obviously very well-managed. Pre-race, the Event and Post-race, everything was smooth sailin'. I'll be back in 2014!
Jeff Rieck - Mesa, AZ
Beautiful Course, Awesome organization, Not enough Cowbell!! Only one on the course. Other than that it was perfect!!
Matt Harvey - Gilbert, AZ
This was my first full marathon and I could not have a better experience. You guys did a tremendous job- I can't wait for next year!!
Kelly Twilling - Scottsdale, AZ
This race exceeded all my expectations. Great Job Everyone!!!!!!!!!!
Larry Donahue - Tempe,AZ
Very scenic. I just didn't do very well on the course. The volunteers at the Expo and on the course were very enthusiastic and helpful.
William Lynn - Glendale, AZ
A great race! Thanks so much, I'll be back next year!
Sindi Connell - Sierra Vista, AZ
Such a beautiful course! Every detail was executed to perfection! Thanks for another great marathon experience! The best race in AZ by far!
Ryan Dunning - Gilbert, AZ
I had originally signed up to run the IMS Phoenix marathon but then found out the LDM was the same weekend. After seeing the course and reading the race reviews I decided to switch at the last minute. And I'm glad I did! The race support was excellent and the course gave me a better taste of what Arizona is like rather than running through the flat streets of Phoenix. The course was tough but I loved it, especially the first miles on dirt road. All the race volunteers did a great job of helping everyone through the aid stations, This is a great race that I would recommend to anyone, especially out of staters like me.
R Brooks - Little Rock
Thank you and all the wonderful volunteers for making my first marathon unforgettable!!!
Amy C. - Gilbert, AZ
The volunteers were unbelievably encouraging and supportive. The scenery is unique to Arizona. The weather was a bit warm for my taste. And the hills were a true challenge.
C. Magno - Chino CA
I did the Lost Dutchman 10K in 2012 and came back this year because I loved it so much. You did not disappoint in 2013! I was especially impressed with the shuttle service and the race morning packet pickup and bag drop off. I didn't use any of these services last year, but it impressed me that I could arrive 35 minutes before the race and get everything taken care of with time to spare. Even larger races I've been in couldn't manage that! The Lost Dutchman remains the premier Arizona race experience, and I'd recommend it to anyone. Hope to be back in the future!
Alexis H. - Tucson, AZ
I had a great time meeting friendly marathoners from around the country. The sunrise start was epic and the dirt road start was one of a kind.
Steve - Brookline, MA
I've been raising money for St Jude Children's Hospital for nearly three years. Running 5 full marathons last year and 6 or more scheduled in 2013. I would highly recommend this marathon to everyone. From start to finish truly the most organized, focused with scenery that is breath-taking. More then enough liquids at all aid station and a very delightful set of food and drinks at the end. More runners should experience this Lost Dutchman Marathon as it undoubtedly rates a 10 on a scale of 1-10 from more than 99% of all participants.
Dubuque, Iowa
Probably the best organized race I've ever done. Pre/Post race were great, volunteers were awesome. Thanks!
April - Phoenix, AZ
This was the first year I've run the 8k, and I really enjoyed it! I've run the full marathon (both courses) and the half-marathon (both courses) several times. Now I'm not sure what I'll do next year! Great job to everyone - the organizers, volunteers, and runners!
Chad - Peoria, AZ
This was my first 10k and I had a blast! I am already looking forward to next year and running in the half-marathon. The finisher's medals were outstanding and the best I have ever seen! The names on the bibs are a great personal touch too. Thanks for all the hard work and attention to detail!
Mason - Sierra Vista, AZ
Fantastic race support!!! I loved that you guys printed our names on our race numbers, all sorts of people were calling us out by name. Really makes you feel good.
Greg - Mesa, AZ
A well managed race on a scenic course
Cleve M - Houston TX
This was my first Marathon so I was little nervous at first but doable. I really love the friendly organizers and volunteers' hard work. For sure I will come back next year!
Bernie P - Phoenix
Awesome race!!! I will be back next year. This was my 11th half marathon and 5th here in Arizona. I enjoy the regional ones instead of the Rock and Roll Series, less runners and the LDM has better scenery. Please have it scheduled on Presidents' Day Weekend to take advantage of the long holiday. Thank you for a great experience.
SSG R.- Sierra Vista, AZ
First time running a Marathon. All aspects of the event were very organized. The volunteers were amazing! I'd definitely recommend this event to others.
Ryan - Gilbert, AZ
This is the 2nd time I ran this marathon, and thought maybe I'd just overrated it in my mind, but no. Second time around was as wonderful as the first. It's a beautiful course, and again the volunteers were the best, most cheering volunteers of any race I've ever ran. The race covers a very rural area and then crosses through some of the most lovely suburban areas. The campfires @ the beginning, the route, the people and even the quality metals: everything is just perfect. Thanks to all who made this event possible!
Cherie- SV, AZ
Very exciting and scenic race. Thank you for this experience.
Gilbert
Great Race...well supported...Beautiful weather
Phoenix
Great event! Very well organized and great paths. Planning on doing 2014 already!
Gilbert, AZ
This was my first LDM and I can't say enough about how great all the volunteers were. Wow. I really loved the ability to leave my belongings in a secure area. Thanks for a fantastic event!
Florence, AZ
The race was awesome
Gold Canyon
This was my first 10k run with my 12 yr old son. We had so much fun and we are planning our next run already!
RDK
This was my first half marathon, and as I've done all my training in Apache Junction, I wanted to do my first half in AJ. I loved it. I loved the race, the people, the volunteers, the racers. It was a beautiful course completely representative of the rustic beauty of AJ. I felt welcome, motivated and excited. This was a great race, and I look forward to doing it every year.
Mesa, AZ
I did the 1/2 marathon at the recommendation of a friend who did the full marathon. Beautiful vistas, excellent organization and friendly people. Thank you.
Tucson, AZ
I really appreciated how well the race was organized! Plenty of water and bathrooms along the route, and with no wait! Great race- thank you!
Chandler, AZ
Loved the trail and medal!!
Gilbert
It was everything positive that I had read comments about.
Baker City, OR
I LOVED how organized this event was....one of the best we have done. We will definitely be back for future LDM!
Mesa, AZ
My first mini marathon. It was GREAT! I found everything from the bus trip to the park, bag drop off and the race line up to be very easy which kept my nerves under control. The race itself was so much fun and my support group found locations to stand and yell which was so greatly appreciated. Everyone was helpful and friendly. Have plans to run again next year!!!!
Gold Canyon
My wife and I had a great time. The course map was terrific. She was able to find me easily on the course. The support was terrific. You did yourself proud Lost Dutchman. Well done! I will pass the word around in Atlanta. Thank you.
Marietta GA
I will be back for this race again next year. My family and I made it a fun weekend and spent time all over the area exploring and just having fun. Great job on this event and I wish I would have ran it long ago but will continue coming for sure.
Surprise, AZ
I walked the 10K and I thought it was a great experience! Please thank all of the wonderful volunteers, and all of the support staff including law enforcement to the bus drivers! Great times!!!
Mansfield, SD
Great energy and volunteers! Well organized parking and shuttles. Thanks for a great race!
Phoenix Az
Awesome event! Loved the trail run, looking forward to next year!
Payson, AZ
This event is awesome! I ran the marathon in 2006 and have been wanting to come back and run again ever since! The start is amazing with the fires...and no lines for the port-o-potties! Yay! I loved the snacks and drinks available, too! What a treat! The course is challenging and so beautiful! The aid stations and their volunteers were amazing! So many of them which was really appreciated since the weather was a little warmer. Every person working the course was smiling and so helpful from water stations to traffic control! I hope to be back next year, for sure!
Tucson
The course is one of the most beautiful I've ever seen. And the feeling of camaraderie amongst the runners is awesome! Thanks for the great day!
Mesa, AZ
Pre-race info very good. Race Day support excellent. Staring area Fires and food, porta-potty, stretching rugs, race start excellent! I like the course. The Volunteers were OUTSTANDING!!!! Very friendly runners. I will recommend this race to all!
Martin - Thornton,CO
Great landscape. Big Sur or LDM are by far the best ever. Which is number one? You have to decided!! Food at the start for the marathon just great touch, a first for me. The bus service was flawless, if cities run bus service like LDM we would not have to drive cars any more. Last but not least the Race support staff were in a word just the best always a smile and a word of cheer to get you to the next station.
Randy - Chico, CA
Now I know why my running friends recommended I run this race! What a pleasure! The scenery - mountains, saguaro cactus, greenery & wildflowers was amazing, the volunteers were plentiful and positive! The spectators / citizens of Apache Junction were very welcoming and kept us smiling. Superbly organized event, great communication leading up to the event. This is my kind of marathon - not a "megathon" with tens of thousands, just a small sized and modest event that is orchestrated to cover every fine detail you could imagine. THANKS for the great experience!!!
Jessica L. - Prescott, AZ
Coming from a cold weather climate to race in "the heat" was a bit concerning, but the aid stations were spaced perfectly, the bananas and GU were just were I needed them. Loved the pre-race fires and the carpet remnants for a good stretch to make new friends. The long straight-away stretches of Broadway, Goldfield, and Lost Dutchmen were a mental minefield, but I survived! Great Race all around! Keep doing what you are doing!
T.P. - Ann Arbor, MI
What an amazing race! The start was absolutely wonderful with the bonfires and mats. Thank you for providing the sunscreen as I didn't bring any and I avoided sunburn for the most part. The first bit of the course downhill through the Arizona mountains was beautiful. Amazing volunteers at the water stations. The packet pickup was easy and the expo was great. Overall a great race and I would recommend it to others. It was only my 2nd marathon, thank you to all the support staff!
Papillion, NE
Great job, guys!
Daly City, CA
Don't change a thing-- keep it easy and simple.
Claypool, AZ
I thought this was a fantastic race. It was very well put together, everyone was extremely helpful, and the course was great.
Dove Creek - Orange County - NY
The race was once again wonderful. Even more than anything else I want you to know that your volunteers were wonderful! Looking forward to doing it again.
Temecula, CA
What a blessing to have such a great race right in my own backyard. LOVED IT!!
Gold Canyon, AZ
I have run the 8k race for the past 3 years. The Lost Dutchman Marathon is by far the most organized race I have ever attended. It is just the right size....not too big. Traffic is tolerable and the entire event comes together nicely. I have recruited two friends to run in it now and am planning to recruit more. I love the quality shirts and beautiful finisher medals that are provided for all the races! Thank you for the time and effort you put into the races.
Kim - Apache Junction, AZ
The bonfires were a great way to meet other runners and stay warm. Then watching the sunrise sneak over the hills to illuminate the desert and Superstitions while the stars melted into morning glow was amazing - Absolutely gorgeous!
Hillsboro, OR
I love this race! It is very well planned, organized and run! I tell all my friends locally and out of state that this is one of my favorite races! Thank you for putting on such a wonderful event!
Renee - Chandler, AZ
My husband & I made the Lost Dutchman 10k run a goal for us as new runners in our 50's :) We love to travel in the winter months to a sunny location & the warm Arizona weather combined with the Lost Dutchman 10k was a big win for us! We discovered Lost Dutchman from Active.com and were very pleased with the event - we'll be back!
Washougal, Washington
Feedback Welcome
We welcome and encourage your feedback on our event. We read everything and seriously consider all advice and criticism with the objective of making the Lost Dutchman Marathon better every year.
Nearly all feedback is published to our web site, however we may not post angry comments about specific isolated instances or those strictly offering advice. Editing is limited to cosmetic changes.
Grady McEachern - Race Director