If you're lucky enough to get into Chicago, work your butt off and get yourself a PB because this is the course for it. It's very flat and fast with lots of aid stations along the way. After reading the rules, it stated that hydration packs and backpacks weren't allowed. It's something to keep in mind if you're looking to bring your backpack or vest along. Although I did see some people wearing them in the start zone so security must've let them in. I'm not sure how strict they are with that but better safe than sorry. The streets are lined with spectators, it was pretty amazing. So much support from everyone.

The expo was pretty huge and we got lucky and got in without a lineup in sight. I saw photos from the Friday that showed crowds of people and really long lineups. I showed up shortly after the 5K ended on Saturday morning and there was nobody. I was directed to the counter I needed and grabbed all my stuff pretty quickly. There were lots of booths to look through. I couldn't stay long but there were lots of big name vendors there. The swag was ok. I wasn't a big fan of the colour of the shirt but the design was nice. The shirt is made by Nike so it's great for running. The medal logo matched the shirt, it's a nice one. You can also order an iTab so you can have your finish time engraved and added to the back.

The entire weekend was well-organized, as any world major should be. All our questions were answered by signs they put up, people working for them, their website, and the event programme. Definitely run this marathon at least once.

For an in-depth review, check out my blog here: http://everythingbutweddings.ca/2018/06/race-recap-sun-mountain-25k-2018/

Organization – Very informative emails and website. The course is also well-marked. I had no fear about getting lost. There were only 2 aid stations along the course. I would’ve liked more, especially since the weather is consistently hot for this race. However, they were well-stocked and I managed to refill my water twice as well as get food. The finish line was also great with lots of energy and food. The volunteers are all fantastic and very positive. Thank you so much for making this race extra enjoyable.

Course – If you like non-technical trails, like me, this is the course for you. Don’t be fooled, there’s still quite a bit of climbing which can be a challenge. The weather also plays a factor so if you’re not a fan of heat, be prepared as more than half of the trails are fully exposed to the elements.

Swag – There are no medals for this race but they were giving out Inov-8 neck gaiters. There was pizza and beer at the finish line too. They also have a fantastic on-course photographer, Glenn Tachiyama, whom you will see along the course. He's the one who took the photo I've attached and definitely my favourite souvenir from this race.

Would I Do it Again? Yes I would! I’d love to see if I’d improve. Plus I love this beautiful little town.

For a more in-depth look, visit my blog here: http://everythingbutweddings.ca/2018/04/recap-rock-n-roll-san-francisco/

Organization – No complaints on the organization. As with other RnR events, there were lots of email correspondence and their website had all the information you need. What I would’ve liked though was a new course video. Normally they have a course preview video but the course was changed this year and no replacement video was made. I didn’t know what to expect so I just rolled with it. Also, please have reserve toilet paper in the porta-potties… just sayin’.

Course – It’s a beautiful, scenic course. You get the mountains, the Golden Gate Bridge, and crashing waves from the Pacific Ocean. There are some steep, hilly sections, this is San Francisco after all. There were some non-technical trail sections (when you switch to the other side of the GG Bridge and a long stretch towards Fort Mason). You do get a hill about 1 km to the finish but the last 100 meters is a steep downhill with the finish line just around the corner.

Swag – Visit all the booths for the opportunity to get free swag. Toyota had games you could play in exchange for prizes. United Airlines was giving away free illy coffee and a Buff. Honey Stinger was giving out samples of their wide range of waffles. There was even a pet food company giving out dog and cat food samples.

Would I Do it Again? – Definitely. Given the opportunity, I would definitely do it again so I can redeem myself and to experience running the Golden Gate Bridge again. It was an unforgettable moment.

For a more detailed review, visit my blog here: http://everythingbutweddings.ca/2018/04/recap-5-peaks-alice-lake-2018/

Organization – Very organized as usual. Now that I’ve volunteered, I was able to see the team behind the race and it was a great group. Everybody was well-coordinated and worked hard to get everything ready by the time runners arrived. The only downside is that they opted not to have the Vancouver to Alice Lake shuttle this year. It was a bummer but it all worked out in the end anyway. They were really on top of encouraging everyone to carpool since parking was very limited. Everyone was a great sport about it though!

Course – Fun yet challenging, also guaranteed to satisfy a downhill phenom. Mostly technical trail with rocks, roots and boulders, a wavy bridge, Rupert the dog, and a doghouse. Halfway down Credit Line is a viewpoint as well, but I decided not to stop.

Swag – While there are no participant medals, 5 Peaks makes up for that with great swag. The first of the series are these amazing 5 Peaks pom pom toques. They rank way up there in my favourite swag list.

Would I Do it Again? Of course! I’ll need to see if I’ve improved over last year. Plus, the course is super fun.

For a more in-depth look, visit my blog here: https://bit.ly/2pMu9qa

Organization – This event was very well-organized from the detailed website to package pickup on race day and the flagging. If you get lost, you’re definitely not paying any attention. There are so many flags, signs and course marshals to direct you to the right way. A+++++++

Course – A nice little tour of Capilano Regional Park with water views and lots of beautiful trees. Lots of people come here to walk their dogs so that’s another thing we had to look out for. Share the path! The route is mostly gravel with very few technical sections. There is a steep climb at the end of the 12k route, which means that you’d be going down it if you’re doing the 24k. If you’re not comfortable with downhill it might be a little intimidating (but it’s doable).

Swag – There wasn’t too much. I saw people holding tote bags and there were a few flyers in there and coupons for beer. I decided not to grab one. They had green cupcakes at the finish as well as other food and drink. The aid stations were great and manned by super friendly and enthusiastic volunteers.

Would I Do It Again? – Yes! I wouldn’t mind trying the 24k next year or just going for it on the 12k to see how much better I can do.