Fresh Starts: In the Mood for a Marathon?

By Bob Cooper

Signing up for a new marathon may seem like risky business. But not if you find one so well orchestrated, it could be mistaken for an old pro. Here are 10 races with short--but strong--track records

There's no disputing the thrill of running through New York City's diverse neighborhoods or the satisfaction of conquering Boston's sacred hills. But these landmark marathons aren't the only ones offering an unforgettable experience. Lucky for you, newer, smaller races are succeeding big-time with the organizational expertise and generous amenities of seasoned veterans. With the help of Runner's World Chief Running Officer Bart Yasso, we tracked down the 10 best up-and-coming marathons, all founded since 2002. Whether you want to explore a remote island, chase a personal rec­ord, or see yourself on a stadium scoreboard, these 10 will make your next 26.2 special

P.F. Chang's Rock 'n' Roll Arizona Marathon

Where: Phoenix/Scottsdale/Tempe, Arizona
When: January 13
Age of Race: Running since 2004
Highlights: Flat, Urban; Entertainment, Star Power

There's an opportunity to race amid red-rock scenery and hard-rock entertainment while rocking out a personal record. P.F. Chang's Rock 'n' Roll Arizona Marathon is run on wide streets that are pancake flat (only 150 feet separate the highest and lowest points) with average race-day temps in the 50s. And because the companion 13.1-miler starts later on a different route, the 7,000 marathon participants don't have to fight half-marathoners for elbow room.

ROUTE From the start at Phoenix's capitol building, runners are off on a three-city course. Highlights include: stunning views of Camelback Mountain and Piestewa Peak and a trip through Old Town Scottsdale with outdoor sculptures, fountains, and surprisingly lush greenery.

ENTERTAINMENT Live music is the backdrop of race weekend. Twenty-six bands--one at every mile--perform along the course, and a headlining artist will perform at 8 p.m. race evening (in 2007, the Gin Blossoms played). Twenty-six cheerleading squads also drum up energy.

STAR POWER Meet Frank Shorter and Runner's World columnist John "The Penguin" Bingham at the 100-vendor prerace expo.

SCHWAG In addition to the standard shirt and medal, finishers get a $10 gift card for P.F. Chang's.

TAKE NOTE Because of the large field of half-marathoners, expect to wait patiently for food and beer. rnraz.com

ING Miami Marathon

Where: Miami, Florida
When: January 27
Age of Race: Running since 2003
Highlights: Flat, Urban, Great Food, Lavish Fuel Stations, Entertainment, Cool Schwag

Few people require arm-twisting to visit Miami in January, especially those of us who rarely get to run sans gloves and balaclava this time of year. The ING Miami Marathon is a great race--and not just because it's a chance to dig out your favorite shorts (temps are usually in the 60s). Miami is a must-do marathon because of its flat, fast course and organizers' attention to detail: Runners are updated with prerace e-mails, and their first names are printed on their race bibs. Plus, with a 6:15 a.m. start, you can be on the beach sipping an umbrella drink before lunch.