Which distances am I training for?

You have three distinct paths depending on your ambition. The Quad Cities Running Festival is your spring option, focusing on a 12-week Half Marathon block. The Bix 7 is a specialized, high-intensity 7-week program for that iconic 7-mile distance. Finally, the TBK Bank Quad Cities Marathon is the heavy hitter, offering a 16-week program for both Full and Half Marathon distances. If you want the "real" Quad Cities experience, go for the Marathon or the Bix 7; the Running Festival is great for those wanting a scenic, lower-stakes river run.

What's the damage to my wallet?

The pricing is remarkably fair for coached programs. The Running Festival block is $75, the Bix 7 prep is $50, and the full Marathon/Half Marathon program is $85. Keep in mind that these are training program fees, not race entries—though you do get a $10 discount code for the actual race included in the price. For the level of coaching and educational content provided, it's a steal compared to private coaching.

Should I expect a brutal course?

It depends entirely on which event you target. The TBK Bank Marathon is USATF-certified, flat, and fast—it's a true runner's course designed for PRs. The Running Festival is a scenic point-to-point along the Great River Trail, which is generally forgiving. However, if you sign up for the Bix 7, prepare for the legendary Brady Street Hill. It’s an out-and-back, and that climb is where the race is won or lost.

How will the weather treat me?

You are running in the Midwest, which means volatility. The May race (Running Festival) can be beautiful or unexpectedly humid. The July race (Bix 7) is almost certainly going to be a sweatfest—expect high temperatures and heavy humidity. The September marathon is usually the "sweet spot" with cooler, more manageable air, but don't get complacent; the Mississippi River breeze can shift quickly. Bring moisture-wicking gear and plan for heat management if you're hitting the summer dates.

How do I get to the Quad Cities?

You'll likely fly into Quad Cities International Airport (MLI). It’s a smaller regional airport, so you might need to connect through a hub like Chicago or Minneapolis. Once you land, you’re a short drive from the Davenport and East Moline hubs. For the marathon and Bix 7, try to stay near downtown Davenport to keep the logistics of race morning simple, as the crowds and road closures in the city center can be intense.