
Race: Dexter to Ann Arbor Half Marathon
Runner: Rob Raux
Race Date: 06/04/2023
Location: Ann Arbor, MI
Results: 1:26:05
Strava Activity Link: https://www.strava.com/activities/9201570461
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.
