Tobacco road as a first?

Yes.  Good event for the first one.

They need to get the transportation logistics sorted out though - it was a nightmare for many last year and it delayed the start by quite a while.  Even though they claim that they will do better next year, it may be worth investing in the on-site parking option.

I agree with what has been said so far.  I have ran the full both years and it is my favorite small marathon.  The only real annoyance is the parking/shuttle issues but each year the race organizers work to make that situation better.  As an example, this year they are going to be running 60 shuttles back to the NetApp lot.  Last year I waited 45 minutes for a shuttle bus before caving and paying 7 bucks for a cab ride back to NetAp.

Pluses:  great organizers, local, great venue for the start (hint - if it's cold you can hang out in the bathrooms at the ballpark, smelly but warm), amazing support (tons of GU, Blocks, GU Brew), great footing on the ATT, great post race food and a flat-ish course.   I also love out and back marathons b/c the people watching is great... oh, and I can't say they'll be back, but the last two years there was a beer aid station around mile 18.  PBR goes surprisingly well with GU Blueberry Pomegranate Roctane!

I haven't decided if I'll run the full or the half, but I'll be there.

Just a couple more suggestions if you are looking for reasonably flat for your first and are willing to travel a bit.....

Outer Banks Flying Pirate (April, although may be only a half) and Quintiles Wrightsville Beach (March)

Both nice races and good destinations.

I'm an huge fan of Hal Higdon plans, especially for new and intermediate marathoners.  I have used his plans for my 6 marathons with great success and the best part is that they are free.

http://www.halhigdon.com/marathon/Mar00index.htm

They used to have daily advice, but I guess Hal decided to not give that away for free anymore.  Maybe that's still in his book.  Regardless, these plans are well thought out and very effective. 

Happy training!

DMarkSwan - 2011-11-07 9:47 AM Flat is overrated. Actually, I have no idea because my first and only marathon was Umstead. It's hard, but a really nice race and totally worth it. But if registration opened already then it's probably sold out. It's worth a quick check, last year they offered up the cancellation slots in January, but add it to your list for a second marathon if you can't get in this year.

Registration will open Wednesday, November 30 2011 at 8:00AM.  Be there then...very small field!  I am not running Umstead in 2012, but hope to volunteer again.