I just wanted to express my complete satisfaction with the way the marathon this past weekend was organized.  I ran the half marathon both this year and last year.  As a runner who was trying to set a new PR, I believe it made all the difference in the world that this time the starting gun went off in waves based on the runners' anticipated finish time.  This time I was able to shave off about two minutes from my time last year.  The beautiful course, the great expo and the post race festivities also made it a memorable event.  I also trained with the ICR Beach Runners (OC), and I absolutely enjoyed the private tent that was set up for the runners and their families to cheer each other on.  It couldn't have been a more enjoyable experience!