Local Austin runner's insight

I located a local runner who's run the Stockholm marathon (back in 2003) and here's what she has to say about it...

"I had a wonderful race! It is pretty flat and lots of beautiful scenery. The two things I did not like was the fact that it was 2 laps (mentally tough) and that it started so late in the afternoon and it really got pretty hot. Everything else was very nice. No really bad hills, just one up and across Vasterbron. Otherwise I did not remember it behing hilly at all. Also, do not count on gu and stuff being passed out along the course, they had pickels and dextrosol along the coruse, which I was not really used to so I skipped it. They also did Pripps and not Gatorade.... But it was 6 years ago so it may have changed.  Good luck, it is a really really beautiful race"

It's interesting that she didn't find it "hilly", which is what I've read repeatedly on marathonguide.com. Most of them saying it's deceivingly hilly.

It's also interesting that she did not like the double loop. (it's two loops of which the second half of each loop is the same, so miles 7-13 and 19-26 are the same).  Personally, I'm actually really happy that it repeats itself because I'll know EXACTLY what I will face in the late miles and will be able to mentally prepare for it.

Then again, I think we have completely different approaches to the marathon as hers was a leisure/fun event, while I am taking this seriously, but will definitely make sure I enjoy the event as well!

Also interesting she didn't talk about the hot dogs at the finishline, because i can tell you I'm already looking forward to eating at least 2 or 3 of them!