3 Bests – What aspects of the race did you like the most?
Weather was perfect for racing
The course for the most part runs in a straight line and it’s easy to hit the tangents.
Very peaceful scenery!
Not so much – Aspects of the race that didn’t do it for you
Lack of spectators.
Weird factor – What’s the weirdest thing about this race?
If nature calls, there isn’t much coverage on the course 😃
Highlights of your race – What did you do well and enjoy about your race in particular?
Running a 2 minute PR in the half and winning the masters division with a time of 1:12:56.
I was able to execute pacing well on this course. I executed well on the climbs and pushed on the downhill.
I was able to stay focused the last 4 miles which helped me negative split the second half of the race!
Lessons for others – Share your pro-tips on the race to help the next runner
Scout the course profile on strava or online. You should be able to set a good game plan to a successful race.
Lessons you learned that will help you next time around
Probably could have pushed harder in the first 10k. I was too focused on being strong in the last 5k because of my past experience on this course.
Most important course specific knowledge to know about the race
Run the tangents. This is a course where your watch will hit at or very close to the mile markers.
Aesthetics – Is it a pretty course?
It is a very nice course. Lots of land and very peaceful.
Difficulty – Is it a tough course?
I would say it’s a course you can be competitive.
Organized and well run – Did it feel like a well-oiled machine or were they flying by the seat of their pants?
Well organized. These folks were great from the organizers to the volunteers.
Competition – Is there a strong field?
Yes you can run with some fast folks in the half marathon!
Logistics – Does it require a special handshake, registration a year in advance, hotels all booked? Give us the low down on the nuts and bolts of making the race happen.
The hotels can be expensive if you stay in Napa. If you like wine, then this is a good destination race if you’re not from the area.
Aid Stations – Standard fare or anything special to know about the aid stations in terms of what’s available or when?
They had enough. Every 2-3 miles.
Weather and typical race conditions
Both times I have run this race, the temps were in the low 40s.
Gear – Did you need anything special or is there anything you’d recommend for the next runner?
Arm sleeves and gloves if needed.
Spectators – Is this a friendly course for your friends?
Yes they have designated areas for spectators but you can’t just go anywhere on the course to spectate. You will need a car to get around the course.
How’s the Swag?
The gear bag was a big Bogo bag! It was nice. The finisher’s shirt was eh!
The Overall Score – How many stars do you give this race and do you recommend that others run it?
4.5 out of 5 stars. I would recommend this race to others.
In this Run Melbourne Race Report, learn from Team RunRun coach how to be prepared for this flat and fast big-city half marathon. Where should you push for the finish, and what should you expect? Read on and enjoy!
3 Bests – What aspects of the race did you like the most?
Flat, perfect for a PB!
Scenic city course
Buzzing atmosphere.
Finish line within Melbourne Olympic Park
Not so much – Aspects of the race that didn’t do it for you
Mid-winter in Melbourne means it can be fresh, but dry. The post-race coffee is worth it.
Highlights of your race – What did you do well and enjoy about your race in particular?
Being my home city race, I know the course very well. So I was able to pace myself to a PB. What makes this course unique is it’s a one lap city course. (Many city courses are two laps).
Lessons for others – Share your pro-tips on the race to help the next runner
The first 10k takes you down Flinders Street, through Docklands and along Southbank. So, plenty of distractions as you hold a steady pace and settle in ready for the second half and that PB.
Then you leave the CBD as you run along the Yarra River to then do a loop of the Royal Botanic gardens (Tan), and Fawkner Park both have slight undulations to keep you on your toes and engage those adductors and glute muscles.
At the 17k mark, it’s downhill alongside the tan, and then the final 3k is flat as you run along the other side of the river and into Olympic Park. This is where you want to start increasing your pace as you weave through the sports complex as the crowds build for a strong finish.
Aesthetics – Is it a pretty course?
Melbourne is voted one of the most liveable cities in the world, so when you get a chance to run through the city traffic free, you take it with both hands.
Difficulty – Is it a tough course?
Apart from a couple of tight turns, its a flat city course.
Organized and well run – Did it feel like a well-oiled machine or were they flying by the seat of their pants?
The event has been running since 2008, so they know what they are doing.
Logistics – Does it require a special handshake, registration a year in advance, hotels all booked? Give us the low down on the nuts and bolts of making the race happen.
No special handshake needing for this event, register at http://www.runmelbourne.com.au
Weather and typical race conditions
I’ve run this event many times over the years. It will be a fresh start, but not freezing. It’s never rained on me yet and as per the pic you finish under clear blue skies. So perfect running conditions.
Spectators – Is this a friendly course for your friends?
Your support crew will love you for running this race. Everything is central.
How’s the Swag?
A nice medal for your efforts.
Ian Whitmore is a coach with Team RunRun. To learn more about him or to work with him, check out his coach profile.
This Chicago Half Marathon race report is meant to help you learn from my experiences with this awesome race. From course details to race day logistics, I try to share all that I can to help you be your best on race day! – Jaysen Chambers
3 Bests – What aspects of the race did you like the most?
Lots of energy with crowd support
Great views of Lake Michigan on Lakeshore Drive
Ginormous finisher medals and great post-race activities – With 7000+ participants they have several vendor tents set up. Food and beverages are available, and there is usually a band. It is a party atmosphere for sure!
Not so much – Aspects of the race that didn’t do it for you
Parking is difficult. I personally parked at the Museum of Science and Industry and walked to the starting area. It’s just under a mile walk.
The race also encourages taking the shuttle or walking to the start. The race shuttles cost $15 and begin departing at 4:30a and 4:45a from various locations. There is great information on their website.
Much of the route is on concrete and is a combo of asphalt and concrete. The roads are fairly well maintained with only a few patchy spots. No sidewalk running at all.
Highlights of your race – What did you do well and enjoy about your race in particular?
This was the first time I went sub-1:50 for a half marathon. Great pacers. I used the 1:50 pacer for this race and stuck with the group. We ran pretty consistent splits. If I remember correctly the weather was very rainy prior to the race starting and then stopped just before gun time. End of September is a tricky time because you can get anything…cold, hot, rain, sun, wind.
This is an out and back course. You start about the first mile winding through the Jackson Park area then head north onto Lakeshore Drive where you get a great view of the Chicago skyline and Lake Michigan. The overpass turnaround is near mile 7 where you back south on Lakeshore Drive.
Lessons for others – Share your pro-tips on the race to help the next runnerrock the Chicago Half Marathon!
Give yourself plenty of time to get to the start/finish area as parking can be challenging. You don’t want to be stressed about getting there on time. During this time of the year, it is still dark. Sunrise is at 6:46a and the race corals close at 6:45a with a start time of 7a.
This is a fairly large race so you don’t need a headlamp to get around in the morning. There are plenty of street lamps and other runners making their way from the parking garage to the starting area. Get there early! There were police directing traffic in to the parking garage, lots of activity…once you park you have the long walk to the start area. There’s gear check and porta potties and a huge starting area for folks to warm up and relax prior to the race.
Lessons you learned that will help you next time around
Know that the turnaround is around mile 7 and is an overpass, so be prepared for that hill. If I was preparing for this race now I would likely take a gel prior to the start. And the two gels on course near miles 4 and 9. Depending on the temp I would sip scratch in my handheld. Everything went well on that day and I gave myself plenty of time to get down to the start area, use the porta potties, relax and warm up.
Most important course specific knowledge to know about the race
It’s usually pretty crowded for about the first mile until you make your way onto Lakeshore Drive where the pack spreads out. Be patient. Once you get onto Lakeshore Drive around mile 2, it’s really just a long straightaway heading north that allows you to settle in to your pace. Pretty flat with a nice view of the Chicago skyline and Lake Michigan. Since it’s an out and back you get to see the folks ahead of you coming back southbound after the turnaround around mile 7.
Aesthetics – Is it a pretty course?
Great views of Lake Michigan and the Chicago Skyline! And an epic final turn towards the finish line in Jackson Park with the Statue of the Republic.
Difficulty – Is it a tough course?
Flat except for the turnaround overpass. It’s your standard exit ramp overpass then down the entrance ramp on the other side. Probably less than a 1/4 mile total. There were a lot of spectators at that turnaround point too. And it always feels good to know you’re headed back to where you started.
Organized and well run – Did it feel like a well-oiled machine or were they flying by the seat of their pants?
Very well run and organized with usually around 7000 participants. Pre and post race communication is excellent for a race of this size. Bib pick up is downtown Chicago and went smooth. Big expo with lots of vendors. Very easy to get live race results. There were several official race photographers throughout the course too.
Competition – Is there a strong field?
Top male in 2023 – 1:10:20
Top female in 2023 – 1:18:58
Competitive age groups
Logistics – Does it require a special handshake, registration a year in advance, hotels all booked? Give us the low down on the nuts and bolts of making the race happen.
I don’t believe it sells out. Only logistical note would be parking / shuttle / walking.
Your options to get your bib are: Packet pick-up day or two before the race, packet mailing, or purchase the will-call option for day-of pick up.
Being Chicago, there are tons of hotels, not many really close to the start/finish area. But that’s where the shuttles play a role.
I drove the down prior to race day to get my bib although coming from the suburbs I would consider having it mailed to me for a fee. It’s quite the journey to get down to Chicago from the burbs.
Aid Stations – Standard fare or anything special to know about the aid stations in terms of what’s available or when?
The aid stations were plentiful about every mile to 1.5 miles. They do have Gatorade Endurance Gels and drink available on course at a few of the aid stations too. Lots of volunteers and very easy to navigate as this is a big city race.
Chicago Half Marathon Finish
Weather and typical race conditions
End of September is hard to predict. It’s a few weeks before the Chicago Marathon…and that weather has been all over the board. Hot, cold, rainy…
Our weather was rainy the whole way driving downtown in the dark and then the rain let up just before the start of the race. It’s usually pretty windy along Lake Michigan so you can expect that. But temps is a crapshoot.
Gear – Did you need anything special or is there anything you’d recommend for the next runner?
Even though you’re walking to the starting corals when the sun is still coming up…don’t forget your sunglasses as the sun will rise over Lake Michigan. They do have a gear check area where I dropped a bag. In 2019 the gear check tent was understaffed and hopefully that has improved over the years, it’s tough to get that piece right for a race. I had some extra shoes and another shirt to change into. I was dressed appropriately for the race!
Spectators – Is this a friendly course for your friends?
Yes. With it being an out and back, friend and family can easily see you twice. I didn’t have any personal family/friends spectating me. There are neighborhoods that are along the edge of the course so they can park and walk over to the median area and see the participants twice on the out and back. There’s also a very large start/finish area in Jackson Park to enjoy post-race activities.
How’s the Swag?
The biggest finisher medals I’ve ever seen. The two years that I ran this race we received long sleeve tech shirts that I still wear today. There was also swag for purchase at the expo.
The Overall Score – How many stars do you give the Chicago Half Marathon and do you recommend that others run it?
4.5 / 5 stars. The reason for the .5 off is because it because you do need to give yourself more time than usual to either park/walk or shuttle over to the start area. And the gear check tent was understaffed when you’re trying to get your dry clothes. I would definitely recommend this race… just know it’s a big city race with big city logistics. Improving the gear check staffing (and I would assume it’s been improved) is my only suggestion.
Coach Jaysen Chambers is a coach with Team RunRun. To learn more about him or to work with him, check out his coach profile.
3 Bests – What aspects of the race did you like the most?
This is a great course for those looking to PR, a flat out and back along the Sammamish River Trail with really good competition considering it was the USATF PNW Half Marathon Championship.
With it serving as the championship, there was also a team competition with cross country style scoring which is always fun.
For being its inaugural year, the race was really well run. Good venues for the start/finish area as well as the post-race party. Accurate mile markers and given the trail wasn’t closed off for the race, there was plenty of spectator and volunteer support all along the course.
Not so much – Aspects of the race that didn’t do it for you
Nothing really to put here, the turnaround was a bit of a hairpin turn but there isn’t really much that can be done to address that other than not taking the turn too tightly. With the trail being open, you might also have to prepare yourself to dodge other foot traffic and bikes but for the most part, everyone was understanding and accommodating as they were aware of the race, allowing runners to follow the tangents and often cheering runners on as well.
Weird factor – What’s the weirdest thing about this race?
Nothing necessarily weird per se but some opt to really lean into the race’s harvest theme.
Highlights of your race – What did you do well and enjoy about your race in particular?
This wound up being a breakthrough race in a way for me. I ran nearly a 3 minute PR, which doesn’t happen often with experienced level runners. Weather was perfect, felt smooth the first half as well even when my stomach was feeling less than ideal. Legs started falling off around mile 8 plus there was a brutal headwind on the way back. I was still able to rally well and come back strong for the last couple miles.
Lessons for others – Share your pro-tips on the race to help the next runner
If at all possible, I’d recommend picking up your race bib prior to race morning. There’s two opportunities to do so (Saturday in Seattle and Sunday in Redmond) leaving you with options no matter what your Labor Day holiday weekend might look like. Also have fun with it, being an out and back course you’ll tend to be surrounded by people throughout the race. That extra energy and excitement will help put a little pep in your step.
Lessons you learned that will help you next time around
I definitely ate too much too close to race time. I kept telling myself the extra piece of toast would come in handy the second half of the race but all it brought was stomach discomfort.
Most important course specific knowledge to know about the race
It’s a paved out and back course. It starts and finishes in Marymoor Park in a paved lot west of the Velodrome and follows the Marymoor Commuter trail out of the park before joining up with the Sammamish River Trail. Aside from the hairpin at the turnaround and some natural turns to stay on the trail, there is a pedestrian bridge at Leary Street you cross with a spiral path on each side.
Aesthetics – Is it a pretty course?
I’d say the course is pretty, very urban but you get a lot of nice views of the river throughout. Marymoor is also quite nice as well, not to mention running by Sixty Acres Park brought back all the nostalgia from my days of playing peewee soccer.
Difficulty – Is it a tough course?
Not all that difficult, flat and fast. Definitely a good course for a PR.
Organized and well run – Did it feel like a well-oiled machine or were they flying by the seat of their pants?
Very well oiled machine despite this year being the inaugural year for the race. Accurate mile markers, ample volunteers, good course markings and all around support/energy.
Competition – Is there a strong field?
Absolutely with it being the USATF PNW Half Marathon Championship with prize money for the top 3 USATF finishers and top 3 teams. I ran 1:09:49 which was good for 5th place overall. Top 15 were all under 1:15, 31 (including the top woman) under 1:20.
Logistics – Does it require a special handshake, registration a year in advance, hotels all booked? Give us the low down on the nuts and bolts of making the race happen.
No special handshake but there are discount codes passed around amongst the local clubs. For those coming from out of town, the Redmond Inn (which is really close to the start/finish and one of the race sponsors) provides a good lodging option.
Aid Stations – Standard fare or anything special to know about the aid stations in terms of what’s available or when?
Four aid stations (two that you hit twice each, miles 4, 6, 7, and 9)all with water and GU Tropical Citrus hydration drink. Miles 4 and 9 have GU Blueberry Pomegranate Energy Chews and Miles 6 and 7 have GU Vanilla Orange Roctane Energy Gels.
Weather and typical race conditions
Really perfect running conditions, cloudy and low 60s. Rain did eventually come but it was more of a refreshing drizzle if anything.
Gear – Did you need anything special or is there anything you’d recommend for the next runner?
No extra gear was really needed.
Spectators – Is this a friendly course for your friends?
Absolutely, with it being an out and back course, you can stay in one spot on the trail and see runners twice. Hanging out at Marymoor provides viewing of the start/finish while there’s also a foot bridge over the trail (between miles 2 and 3/ 10 and 11) that’s accessible and good for viewing. With the race entirely on a paved run/bike trail, there aren’t any road closures, meaning you could drive freely to various spots on the course if you desire.
How’s the Swag?
Good, finisher medals are nice, top 3 in addition to prize money also got gift baskets. 4th-6th place overall as well as age group winners also got gift cards to Super Jock n’ Jill. Nice race shirts too. In order to guarantee a shirt, there is a registration deadline, which this year was August 10th.
The Overall Score – How many stars do you give this race and do you recommend that others run it?
5 stars I definitely recommend others run it.
Photo: Seattle United Runners
Brian Comer is a coach with Team RunRun. To learn more about him or to work with him, check out his coach profile.
3 Bests – What aspects of the race did you like the most?
Scenery!!!!
Really well organized
Small, intimate race (around 300 in the half marathon)
Not so much – Aspects of the race that didn’t do it for you
NA. Really well executed
Weird factor – What’s the weirdest thing about this race?
Loved having champagne at the finish line; better than usual food offerings.
Highlights of your race – What did you do well and enjoy about your race in particular?
Scenery was great. It’s an average 1% downhill grade. I think that helped my time a little. Not so much of a downhill that I had shin splints or any other leg aches after. If you are used to Denver’s elevation, this higher elevation (I think the start is 7000′) won’t be an issue.
Lessons for others – Share your pro-tips on the race to help the next runner
If you are coming from sea level, try to come a few days early to get used to the altitude.
Lessons you learned that will help you next time around
You can easily do your bib pickup the morning off. It’s such a small group the line was short.
Most important course specific knowledge to know about the race
Have a friend drop you off at start line or take bus; no parking at half marathon start.
Aesthetics – Is it a pretty course?
Yes, yes, yes!
Difficulty – Is it a tough course?
No. Unless you have problems with altitude
Organized and well run – Did it feel like a well-oiled machine or were they flying by the seat of their pants?
They had more volunteers than needed. Really well organized.
Competition – Is there a strong field?
Yes! I was in top 15% of the Denver Colfax half marathon just a few weeks ago. There were only 4 men my age, and I was the slowest! Even though I ran three minutes faster! Really strong group.
Logistics – Does it require a special handshake, registration a year in advance, hotels all booked? Give us the low down on the nuts and bolts of making the race happen.
Suggest stay in Basalt, which is the finish line. Hotels and restaurants are a LOT cheaper than Aspen.
Aid Stations – Standard fare or anything special to know about the aid stations in terms of what’s available or when?
Normal fare, and there were a good number of stations.
Weather and typical race conditions
Perfect!! Start around 50 degrees, sunny, and not much wind.
Gear – Did you need anything special or is there anything you’d recommend for the next runner?
Nope.
Spectators – Is this a friendly course for your friends?
There are a few places where they could cheer you on
How’s the Swag?
Limited since it’s a small group.
The Overall Score – How many stars do you give this race and do you recommend that others run it?
5/5. If you want a pretty mountain course, you’d have a hard time beating this.
3 Bests – What aspects of the race did you like the most?
I loved every moment. A lot of it was just personal mindset, but…
Running through Prospect Park was gorgeous.
Ending on the Boardwalk
The enthusiasm
Not so much – Aspects of the race that didn’t do it for you
Basically the rain.
Highlights of your race – What did you do well and enjoy about your race in particular?
OK, I loved this race. I’m afraid to run it again because this was such a good experience. I went in with the mindset that I would just live it up. Ham for every camera, talk to people, be a big nerd, but still try to run my best. And I did! I was faster than I’ve been in YEARS. I had a good pace going into the big hill midway through (thank you to Matt for alerting me to this), and then coasted afterward. I saw my great friend, Brad, who waved to me on course (and told me later I was going so fast!), and I refueled even when I didn’t want to, around mile 8, if memory serves. And I did really ham for every camera but got the most epic pic of my life!
Lessons for others – Share your pro-tips on the race to help the next runner
The big hill comes early, but take it in stride and know that afterward it’s pretty much downhill or flat. And the crowds cheering toward the end are going to thrill you.
Lessons you learned that will help you next time around
To fuel! I can’t tell you how much better I felt after I had a gel at mile 8 ish. I didn’t want it, because my blood sugar was still on the higher end (I have Type 1 diabetes), but I ended up having one and it kept me consistent through the rest of the race. I ended around 102 bloodsugar wise, which is practically perfect.
Most important course specific knowledge to know about the race
The hill in Prospect Park around mile 5 or 6 is killer, but take it slow and embrace it.
Aesthetics – Is it a pretty course?
YES!
Difficulty – Is it a tough course?
I’d say the first half was harder than the second.
Organized and well run – Did it feel like a well-oiled machine or were they flying by the seat of their pants?
It was a well-oiled machine.
Competition – Is there a strong field?
It’s New York, so yes.
Logistics – Does it require a special handshake, registration a year in advance, hotels all booked? Give us the low down on the nuts and bolts of making the race happen.
Register as soon as you can.
Aid Stations – Standard fare or anything special to know about the aid stations in terms of what’s available or when?
Standard.
Weather and typical race conditions
Well it was rainy as all get out from mile 8 or 9 on. It was unpleasant, but wasn’t the worst rain I’ve run through.
Gear – Did you need anything special or is there anything you’d recommend for the next runner?
Nope!
Spectators – Is this a friendly course for your friends?
YES!
How’s the Swag?
Pretty good! Much better than some of the races I’ve run in other places.
The Overall Score – How many stars do you give this race and do you recommend that others run it?
3 Bests – What aspects of the race did you like the most?
Downhill (prob 95%) course
Very PR’able
Beautiful scenery
Not so much – Aspects of the race that didn’t do it for you
Definitely have someone waiting for you at the finish so you don’t have to deal with the shuttles! Point to point race so if you park at the start (which most people do) you have to shuttle/bus back. This is typically no big deal. Pretty common. BUT, they obviously didn’t have enough shuttles or busses. Waited almost an hour (in full sun) and then 20+mins to travel back to Loveland ski area. Almost 90 mins just to get back to my car — for a race that took 1:52 to run.
There is also a relay race in this event and I heard from people that the shuttles to their start area was just as awful. 🙁
Weird factor – What’s the weirdest thing about this race?
It’s a fairly late start — 8 am. Even though it’s in the mountains, still a lot of potential for it to be WARM in late June. Seems like a no-brainer to start it a bit earlier.
Highlights of your race – What did you do well and enjoy about your race in particular?
I enjoyed the course very much! Placed in my AG (3rd out of 70), too!
Lessons for others – Share your pro-tips on the race to help the next runner
Parking is easy but the shuttles aren’t. Have someone drop you off/pick you up.
Lessons you learned that will help you next time around
See above about getting a ride to/from the race.
Most important course specific knowledge to know about the race
This is downhill course, yes. However, there are a few significant uphills — and the website doesn’t have a proper course elevation map so it’s hard to know in advance where they are. There’s a small hill in the first mile (no biggie, fresh legs); the main incline comes around mile 6 and it’s significant. There’s another brief hill around mile 10. And then, it’s dirt and a gradual up for the last quarter mile — pretty harsh at the end.
The first mile is also on dirt trail. It’s no big deal but it’s narrow (maybe 6′ wide) and before people start fanning out, it’s a crowded first mile.
Aesthetics – Is it a pretty course?
Very much so! Even though parts of it are close to I-70, some of the best views are in the later part of the course when the path opens up along the highway.
Difficulty – Is it a tough course?
Not really. If you haven’t trained for significant downhill running, quads will be on fire.
Organized and well run – Did it feel like a well-oiled machine or were they flying by the seat of their pants?
Very much so! Except for the busses/shuttles. There are a ton of prizes/giveaways at the end, good beers, REAL FOOD and an overall good vibe!
Competition – Is there a strong field?
Unsure, it’s a mid-size race. Mostly locals.
Logistics – Does it require a special handshake, registration a year in advance, hotels all booked? Give us the low down on the nuts and bolts of making the race happen.
Nope!
Aid Stations – Standard fare or anything special to know about the aid stations in terms of what’s available or when?
Pretty standard fare. Water and I think gatorade. Water stations seemed plentiful.
Weather and typical race conditions
It’s late June so yes, it can be warm. And you’re running directly into the sun.
Gear – Did you need anything special or is there anything you’d recommend for the next runner?
Not really
Spectators – Is this a friendly course for your friends?
More so than I thought! Since it’s also a relay race, they have several designated parking areas in at least 4 spots along the course. While there weren’t a ton of spectators along the course, in these few areas, it was really nice!
How’s the Swag?
Long sleeve shirt — which is odd for a summer race. But the design and logo for Slacker is AWESOME!
The Overall Score – How many stars do you give this race and do you recommend that others run it?
4 out of 5 stars
Nicole Thome is a coach with Team RunRun. To learn more about her or to work with her, check out her coach profile.
3 Bests – What aspects of the race did you like the most?
Net downhill!
The views at the start
They had two waves
Not so much – Aspects of the race that didn’t do it for you
The 7:00am start time
Highlights of your race – What did you do well and enjoy about your race in particular?
I enjoyed the downhills. I ran a 20 minute PR!
Lessons for others – Share your pro-tips on the race to help the next runner
This is an easy beginner half marathon.
Most important course specific knowledge to know about the race
The first 8 miles are downhill.
Aesthetics – Is it a pretty course?
Very pretty course!
Difficulty – Is it a tough course?
Pretty easy even for someone who has never run a half.
Organized and well run – Did it feel like a well-oiled machine or were they flying by the seat of their pants?
A little bit of both but it effect anything.
Competition – Is there a strong field?
There were definitely an elite group of runners in the second wave.
Logistics – Does it require a special handshake, registration a year in advance, hotels all booked? Give us the low down on the nuts and bolts of making the race happen.
It is popular with the surrounding area but it’s pretty assessable. There are lots of things to do in Ithaca so plan to stay a few days. Lots of nice airbnbs!
Aid Stations – Standard fare or anything special to know about the aid stations in terms of what’s available or when?
The volunteers were amazing at all the aid stations. Standard stations with an extra one that offered fruit!
Weather and typical race conditions
It can be very hot but we had perfect conditions. Some of it is on a rail trail so there is some shade.
Gear – Did you need anything special or is there anything you’d recommend for the next runner?
Didn’t need anything special.
Spectators – Is this a friendly course for your friends?
Once you get off the rail trail and onto the road headed back to town there are more spectators.
How’s the Swag?
Sway is pretty cool!
The Overall Score – How many stars do you give this race and do you recommend that others run it?
3 Bests – What aspects of the race did you like the most?
Lots of entertainment along the route
Great energy at the beginning of the race
Route covers a lot of great neighborhoods
Not so much – Aspects of the race that didn’t do it for you
Course was crowded the entire time
Lanes were too narrow for the amount of people
Weird factor – What’s the weirdest thing about this race?
We went through a road construction section, which was not great!
Highlights of your race – What did you do well and enjoy about your race in particular?
First time running more than 10 miles since 2019. My time was far from my best, but it was a great confidence booster to just go through the distance.
Lessons for others – Share your pro-tips on the race to help the next runner
No need to arrive super early – access is easy
Get ready for hills – not crazy steep, but plenty of them, all the way until the last 0.25 mile
Aesthetics – Is it a pretty course?
Yes – plenty of fun neighborhoods
Difficulty – Is it a tough course?
It was more hills than I had anticipated
Organized and well run – Did it feel like a well-oiled machine or were they flying by the seat of their pants?
Yes – well organized with good structure (bathrooms, snacks at the end)
Logistics – Does it require a special handshake, registration a year in advance, hotels all booked? Give us the low down on the nuts and bolts of making the race happen.
I signed up 6 days before the run, so no need to rush. I was local and took a Uber to get to the beginning of the course
Weather and typical race conditions
It’s San Diego 😊, and it started at 6.15am… perfect weather in the low 60s, slight overcast, no humidity
Spectators – Is this a friendly course for your friends?
Yes – plenty of opportunities for friends to meet on the course
How’s the Swag?
Nice t-shirt and solid/heavy medal
The Overall Score – How many stars do you give this race and do you recommend that others run it?
3 Bests – What aspects of the race did you like the most?
Point to point course which travels mostly along the beautiful Huron River
Tons of spectators along the course cheering and encouraging
Very well organized and executed
Not so much – Aspects of the race that didn’t do it for you
Uphill finish can be brutal.
Summer races are HOT!
Huron river drive, which the race mostly traverses, is noticably crowned.
Highlights of your race – What did you do well and enjoy about your race in particular?
A local gem, running for almost 50 years, brings out the local community. Seeing familiar faces volunteering, running, and otherwise helping out is inspiring and motivating.
Lessons for others – Share your pro-tips on the race to help the next runner
There are a number of steeper hills that come up on you. Check out the course profile so you aren’t unexpectedly surprised. Prepare yourself mentally for the uphill finish, you can’t see the finish line until you’re really close!
Lessons you learned that will help you next time around
The shade is your friend, even if you don’t end up running tangents. It can get hot out there real fast.
Aesthetics – Is it a pretty course?
Running mostly along the Huron river, with some sweeping views is a beautiful distraction through the pain. The start and end, through the Dexter and Ann Arbor feel lackluster in comparison.
Difficulty – Is it a tough course?
If you aren’t used to rolling hills it can be surprisingly difficult.
Organized and well run – Did it feel like a well-oiled machine or were they flying by the seat of their pants?
Well executed and organized year after year.
Competition – Is there a strong field?
Surprisingly strong field for a “local” race.
Logistics – Does it require a special handshake, registration a year in advance, hotels all booked? Give us the low down on the nuts and bolts of making the race happen.
Plan ahead for the bus ride to the start, the lines can be long, but they are efficient.
Aid Stations – Standard fare or anything special to know about the aid stations in terms of what’s available or when?
Water, gatorade, and zero waste setups.
Weather and typical race conditions
Hot, sunny, and often humid
The Overall Score – How many stars do you give this race and do you recommend that others run it?
4.5 stars — well worth racing, with options for 5k and 10k as well.
3 Bests – What aspects of the race did you like the most?
Spectacular scenery on the route, going up one side of Mt. Sentinel, then up to University Peak and “the Beacons.”
Great camaraderie.
Well organized.
Not so much – Aspects of the race that didn’t do it for you
For me, the cutoffs were a bit close, e.g., the first cutoff was for 90 minutes to go 6.1 miles and up about 2,000 vertical feet.
Weird factor – What’s the weirdest thing about this race?
Being offered a margarita at the aid station at the highest altitude of the race – but no complaints! 🙂
Highlights of your race – What did you do well and enjoy about your race in particular?
I made the cutoffs, which I was not sure I could do.
Lessons for others – Share your pro-tips on the race to help the next runner
See above. If the cutoffs seem close for you, make up time on the relatively level portions.
Lessons you learned that will help you next time around
Prep that much more for the cutoffs.
Most important course specific knowledge to know about the race
Making the cutoffs.
Aesthetics – Is it a pretty course?
Yes! Spectacular!
Difficulty – Is it a tough course?
Yes, but worth it.
Organized and well run – Did it feel like a well-oiled machine or were they flying by the seat of their pants?
Very well organized, done by the same folks who bring you the Missoula Marathon, which has been designated best marathon a couple different years, partly if not largely because of it being so well run.
Competition – Is there a strong field?
Yes.
Logistics – Does it require a special handshake, registration a year in advance, hotels all booked? Give us the low down on the nuts and bolts of making the race happen.
This year (2023), it did not fill up. Missoula is an amazing town to visit, very fun. Also home to Adam Peterman.
Aid Stations – Standard fare or anything special to know about the aid stations in terms of what’s available or when?
They were absolutely fine.
Weather and typical race conditions
Weather was fine, starting in the mid-50s, threatening to rain but it did not. Getting up above the clouds added to the beauty, the atmospherics.
Gear – Did you need anything special or is there anything you’d recommend for the next runner?
Cupless event, but there were 3 aid stations, which was plenty.
Spectators – Is this a friendly course for your friends?
If friends want to climb up Mt. Sentinel or parts of it, great. If not, the start and finish line is at a nice athletic-type field next to the University stadium, alongside the Clark Fork River.
How’s the Swag?
A little different – instead of a T-shirt, they gave Sayso sunglasses with the name of the race on the temple.
The Overall Score – How many stars do you give this race and do you recommend that others run it?
5 out of 5 stars, but I would encourage the directors to extend the cutoffs a little to be that much more inclusive – though I am aware it is a balancing act, balancing inclusiveness with safety and volunteer logistics.
3 Bests – What aspects of the race did you like the most?
On time
Very well labeled route
Great swag
Not so much – Aspects of the race that didn’t do it for you
Lots of turn arounds
The route was open to the pubic, so other walkers, runners, bicyclists were on the route.
Weird factor – What’s the weirdest thing about this race?
You pass the same aid stations twice, but you could only get the water, etc. one direction.
Highlights of your race – What did you do well and enjoy about your race in particular?
Got a PR, 1 year from working with my Coach and being released to run from hip surgery.
Lessons for others – Share your pro-tips on the race to help the next runner
Down hills and gravel are in the beginning and end of the race so save your energy for the last couple miles, you will need it.
Lessons you learned that will help you next time around
Don’t go out too fast in the beginning.
Most important course specific knowledge to know about the race
It’s not a straight course, hills in the beginning and end, with lots for turn arounds.
Aesthetics – Is it a pretty course?
It’s run in a park, so it’s nice to be out of the city hustle.
Difficulty – Is it a tough course?
Not particularly, one good sized hill near the finish.
Organized and well run – Did it feel like a well-oiled machine or were they flying by the seat of their pants?
On time by the second!
Competition – Is there a strong field?
It’s an all women race, I’d say good competition.
Logistics – Does it require a special handshake, registration a year in advance, hotels all booked? Give us the low down on the nuts and bolts of making the race happen.
They only allow 1200 runners between all three distances. The city is very busy, so you have to get there early to get there in adequate time.
Aid Stations – Standard fare or anything special to know about the aid stations in terms of what’s available or when?
Water and electrolytes at each station
Weather and typical race conditions
Normal race conditions. Was mid-60°
Gear – Did you need anything special or is there anything you’d recommend for the next runner?
Canada has weird reactions on race fuel so bring your own, don’t rely on getting any there and expect it to be the same.
Spectators – Is this a friendly course for your friends?
Yes, very friendly course.
How’s the Swag?
Huge bag of snacks at the finish.
Puma is the main sponsor, so a nice Puma shirt.
Finisher’s medal for the 1/2 marathon was a necklace. 5k/10k were medals.
The Overall Score – How many stars do you give this race and do you recommend that others run it?
3 Bests – What aspects of the race did you like the most?
Mostly flat. Nice views.
Not so much – Aspects of the race that didn’t do it for you
They can’t / won’t send out bib package in advance, even with a fee.
Weird factor – What’s the weirdest thing about this race?
Its’ at 5200′
Highlights of your race – What did you do well and enjoy about your race in particular?
There’s a big hill at mile 10.5 of a half marathon. Big group of people cheering. That was great. You get to run mile 4 thru the Zoo. Mile 8 is thru a firestation and the firefighters do a great cheer.
Lessons for others – Share your pro-tips on the race to help the next runner
There’s an ample number of water stations and bathrooms before, during and after. They do have corrals roughly based on expected time.
Lessons you learned that will help you next time around
My pacing in first three miles could have been better.
Most important course specific knowledge to know about the race
NA. It’s all paved and really straight forward.
Aesthetics – Is it a pretty course?
You run thru downtown, along cherry creek, and thru city park. You can see the mountains for much of it.
Difficulty – Is it a tough course?
I think the half marathon had 200′ of elevation gain. Pretty easy.
Organized and well run – Did it feel like a well-oiled machine or were they flying by the seat of their pants?
It’s well organized.
Competition – Is there a strong field?
I don’t think so, a 1hr 58 time was in top 20%.
Logistics – Does it require a special handshake, registration a year in advance, hotels all booked? Give us the low down on the nuts and bolts of making the race happen.
I live in Denver, so not sure on lodging. I think it’s approx 20,000 people for full and half marathon, 10K, etc. I’d bet 80% live in Denver. If 4,000 people need rooms, it’s no problem to handle that many guests in a big city. It’s easy to sign up.
Aid Stations – Standard fare or anything special to know about the aid stations in terms of what’s available or when?
All standard and efficient. nice job.
Weather and typical race conditions
Typical Denver in May, 50-55 degrees, low humidity, bright sun, not much wind in morning. About perfect.
Gear – Did you need anything special or is there anything you’d recommend for the next runner?
None needed. This is an easy race.
Spectators – Is this a friendly course for your friends?
Yes! There’s lots of spots where your friend could catch up with you.
How’s the Swag?
OK.
The Overall Score – How many stars do you give this race and do you recommend that others run it?
If you want a flat, high altitude course, this is a great choice. If you live at sea level, bring extra sun screen and drink more water for the altitude!
3 Bests – What aspects of the race did you like the most?
The fanfare and lively spectators around town, and from their driveways in some residential areas toward the end.
Easy, straightforward logistics and parking
The course!
Weird factor – What’s the weirdest thing about this race?
At one water station, I seemed to grab the small water cup a little too aggressively from a volunteer teenager and I basically smashed the cup too much, spilling water everywhere! But still got enough water for what I wanted. I remember this happened during a half marathon in 2019 too, so I seem to have a problem in grabbing water cups gracefully : )
Highlights of your race – What did you do well and enjoy about your race in particular?
Overall pace management over the hilly terrain and race execution. Started fairly comfortable and smooth, then gradually floated away into the lead later in the 1st mile. Then started to work harder heading into the 2nd half including letting it fly for the final downhill mile with ~5:00-5:05 split. Hilly, road courses plays into my strengths as an experienced trail runner and my track/speed background, so I didn’t mind the hills!
Most important course specific knowledge to know about the race
Be prepared for a few good hills and not exactly the best course if you’re seeking a PR! The last mile is a consistent, steady downhill which is an absolute blast!
Aesthetics – Is it a pretty course?
Not bad! A nice mix of some city running but also more rural, countryside streets too. Toward the end, you run through some residential streets and it seemed like everyone came out to cheer (and party!) from their front yards and driveways!
Difficulty – Is it a tough course?
I’d say fairly harder than the average half-marathon course with 500′ of elevation gain. I felt that the toughest section is a constant uphill from about Mile 9.0-10.5.
Organized and well run – Did it feel like a well-oiled machine or were they flying by the seat of their pants?
All good here! Very well-organized, no snafus. They have a bag check fairly close to the start too, which was very convenient.
Competition – Is there a strong field?
Not particularly but you never know who could show up!
Logistics – Does it require a special handshake, registration a year in advance, hotels all booked? Give us the low down on the nuts and bolts of making the race happen.
All pretty simple and straightforward. You can register up until the week of the race. I stayed with a friend, so not sure on booking lodging. There were nearly 1,000 entrants for the half alone though, so you may want to secure lodging at least a few weeks in advance if you can!
Weather and typical race conditions
Mid-50’s and overcast… pretty ideal! The day before was very hot though too, so probably lucked out a bit this year!
Spectators – Is this a friendly course for your friends?
I’d say so! The half is one big loop, so perhaps opportunity to see your runner somewhere in the middle before they reach the finish; however several roads closed off too. Spectating by bike could be a good option too.
How’s the Swag?
Pretty standard swag. A gray long-sleeve with thumbholes and a medal. For winning the race, I received a plaque in a fancy box and a dinner for two at the local Anthony’s restaurant.
The Overall Score – How many stars do you give this race and do you recommend that others run it?
4 out of 5 stars – Well-organized, great community event!
Keith Laverty is a coach with Team RunRun. To learn more about him or to work with him, check out his coach profile.
3 Bests – What aspects of the race did you like the most?
Pacers for this race were amazing! Very encouraging and you could tell they had plenty of experience. Shout out to pacer Jim from Pittsburgh!
I like that this course is relatively flat, the few hills that were in there were manageable.
Not so much – Aspects of the race that didn’t do it for you
Nuun and water was given at aid stations, but it was hard to tell which table had water vs nuun.
Weird factor – What’s the weirdest thing about this race?
At one point you run over a bridge and it felt very strange to run on. You could also see through the grate looking bridge and see water below.
Highlights of your race – What did you do well and enjoy about your race in particular?
We were lucky to have great running weather, so I surprised my self and did better than my goal!
Lessons for others – Share your pro-tips on the race to help the next runner
Pro tip is to stay at the Westin hotel. It’s a one block walk to the start/finish line.
Aesthetics – Is it a pretty course?
There are parts of Cleveland that are very pretty! So yes! Running through the flats and a residential neighborhood that included the A Christmas Story house was very cool.
Difficulty – Is it a tough course?
I would say it’s difficult. Hills were not bad.
Organized and well run – Did it feel like a well-oiled machine or were they flying by the seat of their pants?
Felt smooth to me, but it was my first half so I haven’t seen another!
Logistics – Does it require a special handshake, registration a year in advance, hotels all booked? Give us the low down on the nuts and bolts of making the race happen.
Book hotel by April. (One month prior to race)
Aid Stations – Standard fare or anything special to know about the aid stations in terms of what’s available or when?
Stations has nuun, water, and Gu energy gels.
Spectators – Is this a friendly course for your friends?
For sure! I saw a few groups of the same people about 5 times on the course, so it is easy for spectators to move around.
The Overall Score – How many stars do you give this race and do you recommend that others run it?
4.5/5 stars! Fun race and I would recommend to others!
3 Bests – What aspects of the race did you like the most?
Very nice location and gorgeous views!
Not so much – Aspects of the race that didn’t do it for you
Mile 4-6.5 was off road and very muddy and slippery!
Highlights of your race – What did you do well and enjoy about your race in particular?
Crushed my 1:30h time goal, even with all the difficulties during the race
Lessons for others – Share your pro-tips on the race to help the next runner
Don’t waste too much energy on the uphill, there’s a nice downhill later on to make up that time again!
Most important course specific knowledge to know about the race
They had to change the official route this year since the road got washed out. The original route was supposed to be a downhill race! For the new route you should save your energy on the uphill and hope for dry weather so the off road section doesn’t get as slippery and muddy
Aesthetics – Is it a pretty course?
Amazing views on Bass Lake
Difficulty – Is it a tough course?
One big climb at mile 4, other than that very runnable rolling hills
Organized and well run – Did it feel like a well-oiled machine or were they flying by the seat of their pants?
It was pretty well organized and more than enough aid stations around!
Competition – Is there a strong field?
It’s a mixed field. Strong runners are competing but some people also simply walk the race
Logistics – Does it require a special handshake, registration a year in advance, hotels all booked? Give us the low down on the nuts and bolts of making the race happen.
You’ve to be there early to catch the shuttle to the start line! A hotel close by makes it way easier
Aid Stations – Standard fare or anything special to know about the aid stations in terms of what’s available or when?
A bunch of aid stations with water and Gatorade available
Weather and typical race conditions
Weather during the race was perfect! But they had a lot of rain the night before which caused the off road section to be very muddy!
Spectators – Is this a friendly course for your friends?
There’re shuttle busses to get the spectators to the finish line
The Overall Score – How many stars do you give this race and do you recommend that others run it?
8/10! Beautiful route and well organized. Would have been better without the off road section!
3 Bests – What aspects of the race did you like the most?
Cracking morning, small event with a good community vibe, beautiful scenery as you run along the esplanade. Oh and a free beer at the local brewery is always nice.
Not so much – Aspects of the race that didn’t do it for you
A few to many hills for my liking!
Highlights of your race – What did you do well and enjoy about your race in particular?
Had a sniff at a PB, fell 90 second short, but with those hills it was not meant to be.
Difficulty – Is it a tough course?
Road, with a few inclines to keep you on your toes.
Organized and well run – Did it feel like a well-oiled machine or were they flying by the seat of their pants?
3 Bests – What aspects of the race did you like the most?
Reasonable course, well organized, great support
Not so much – Aspects of the race that didn’t do it for you
No complaints
Weird factor – What’s the weirdest thing about this race?
Bacon station in one of the neighborhoods you run through
Highlights of your race – What did you do well and enjoy about your race in particular?
I had a plan, followed it, and it worked!
Lessons for others – Share your pro-tips on the race to help the next runner
If it is chilly, wear gloves.
Lessons you learned that will help you next time around
I know I can complete a half without ending depleted, so next time I can push myself more.
Most important course specific knowledge to know about the race
There are hills. Kalamazoo is hilly.
Aesthetics – Is it a pretty course?
Yes
Difficulty – Is it a tough course?
Hills this year were reasonable.
Organized and well run – Did it feel like a well-oiled machine or were they flying by the seat of their pants?
Very well organized.
Competition – Is there a strong field?
Not in the half in my age group but yes in the marathon and in other age groups. This race is a Boston qualifier.
Logistics – Does it require a special handshake, registration a year in advance, hotels all booked? Give us the low down on the nuts and bolts of making the race happen.
Seemed easy to register.
Aid Stations – Standard fare or anything special to know about the aid stations in terms of what’s available or when?
Excellent liquid and energy support as well as medical aid and people cheering runners on.
Weather and typical race conditions
Was cold and overcast, which helps me do my best. Tiny bit of rain or snow. Windy.
Gear – Did you need anything special or is there anything you’d recommend for the next runner?
Mittens or gloves.
Spectators – Is this a friendly course for your friends?
Yes, and a big festival at the end.
How’s the Swag?
Shirt and finisher medal.
The Overall Score – How many stars do you give this race and do you recommend that others run it?
5 stars and a hearty yes to recommend it to others.
