Runners report hectic scene after Las Vegas Rock 'n' Roll Marathon
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Marathon runners ran into several problems after the raise was over at Mandalay Bay. Video by ktnv.com
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Las Vegas, NV (KTNV) -- After encountering several problems after the the Las Vegas Rock 'n' Roll Marathon was over, runners say they hope to see changes implemented before next year's race.
Event organizers said they are aware of some issues, and are already planning on implementing some changes for next year's race, but by all accounts the event was an economic success.
The Las Vegas Convention and Visitor's Authority said according to preliminary estimates, they believe the marathon brought in close to $50 million in non-gaming revenue.
Despite all the money made, there were still a few issues after the marathon ended. Runners said the finish line was the starting point for all of their problems.
"It was fine while we were running, but the moment we stopped, there was just a wall of people," half-marathon runner Mary Murphy said. "We couldn't get anywhere."
Mary Murphy and her daughter found themselves stuck. They had anticipated receiving a blanket at the end of the course, but found themselves out in the cold.
"They weren't handing out the blankets in a very efficient way," Kelli Murphy, Mary's daughter said. "They were kind of throwing them to everyone. We were trying to get back to our hotel as quick as possible."
It wasn't just blankets. Runners complained about the lack of energy drinks, water and even receiving wrong medals.
"We're getting credit for something we didn't do," half-marathon runner Christie McMorris said, holding up a medal meant for those who completed the full marathon. "I would have rather gotten the appropriate medal."
McMorris didn't just get the wrong medal, she also said she wasn't able to get anything to eat after the race.
"Inside the hotel was horrible," McMorris said. "It was a Sunday night, I guess all the restaurants closed early, but they didn't stay open late for this event. The only restaurants that were open had huge lines. There was nowhere for us to go."
Despite the relative chaos following the race, many runners said they'd do it all over again.
"Yeah, we would do it again," McMorris' husband said. "Just hopefully with a little more organization."
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