A major sign of success for any marathon is the number of spectators who are out on the course.  Listen to any first place finisher and they will attribute part of their success to the cheering spectators. 

There is no question that crowd support makes a difference for runners, from the top of the results list to the bottom.  First timers especially need the help of others to get through those moments when they aren't sure they can do it.

While tradition is what often puts the Boston Marathon in high esteem, it is still the knowledgeable and noisy spectators that leave runners in awe of the event. Finding the resources to bring in great competition is far less of a challenge than attracting a multitude of spectators.  If everyone in the city knows about the event then you have yourself a major spectacle.

It can often be difficult for an event to motivate people to stand around for hours as runners go by.  The Montreal Marathon was the first race where I witnessed spectators using noisemakers, such as pots and pans, to encourage runners. Later I copied the idea at the Free Press Marathon and the mental aid station was born here in Detroit.  Elite Racing, organizers of the Music Marathons like San Diego's Rock and Roll have used music to inspire runners and attract crowds on the course.

I've been to a number of races where spectators have set up picnics or party areas for friends and family to gather and support the runners. Hot weather races often encourage people on the courser to turn on their sprinklers to cool off runners.  Last year in the Indian Village section of the Free Press Marathon a neighbor boasted that he handed out four cases of beer to runners.

This year two new additions to the Free Press course will be asking its residents and businesses to join the party.  Mexican Village between miles two and three will introduce runners to another cultural part of Detroit.  As will Eastern Market at mile 24, which regards the race as an opportunity to continue celebrating its 300^th anniversary.

Spectators are often inspired while witnessing the variety of runners that set out to complete 26.2 miles.  They discover that the event isn't just about sinewy jocks but every size and shape person from all walks of life.  Some runners just go about their business while some incite the crowd for recognition with colorful outfits, famous sayings or club names.  Hearing ones own name is one of the sweetest sounds a runner will hear. If a runner's name is on their singlet then spectators can play their part and shout it out.

Although the course is still awaiting final city approval it has only changed slightly from last year.  Some great places to watch runners will be at these locations:

Mexican Village - 23^rd and Bagley

Windsor Waterfront - Riverside Drive and Ouellette

Detroit Windsor Tunnel Exit - Randolph and Jefferson Ave.

MacArthur Bridge to Belle Isle - Jefferson and Grand Boulevard

Indian Village - Goethe and Seminole

Eastern Market - Russell and Adelaide

Greektown - Monroe and St. Antoine

Ford Field - View the Finish Line from the stands