I actually did the Aloha Readiness Series races a few different years. These are very basic and done very cheaply ("bring your own toilet paper" cheap and yes, there is a story to go with that!) But their intention is to help you train for a longer race and

"This race was pleasant--aside from the 93% humidity that morning. Course runs around NYC's Central Park with the tougher hills between miles 1 and 4. No real complaints about the race or logistics. NYRR knows how to do races -- plentiful aid stations, clocks, safe course and good

I loved this marathon. Small, water front, friendly. The course is wicked flat and with it I managed to secure a solid BQ and PR. The after party was a lot of fun and my friends and I danced all morning post run while drinking our lovely mimosas. Would consider running