This was my PR 1/2 Marathon race, maybe because I'm so used to running after work.
The big down fall about the race is that it's in the afternoon so if you're stuck on the course (mile 9) there's a chance that you may be running in the forest preserve for the next 2 miles in the dark.
Though, I thought it was cool finishing a 1/2 with spots lights on you!
Pros:
- All Community Events run cheap and community based races
- The night party at the end!
- The aid stations had their own themes!
- Parking is free and on site!
Cons:
- Have to worry about what you eat all day before the race
- You're not the fastest runner (8:30/mile or less) you might be running in the dark
- You do have to run through a country road before you get into the forest path

This point to point race always asks the question: "Why am I running this when everyone else is partying!?"
Bay to Breakers is known for: nudity, open alcohol, and an all day event in San Francisco.
Even though finishing in the top 100 my finishing photo was next to a guy in a banana costume!
This race is not only fast but so much fun! I ended up running the race twice so I could join the party train the back!
I recommend this race as a bucket list race and it's really designed for both the partiers and elite runners.
The field was stacked both with costumes and with Kenyans!
You receive a medal at the end and beer as well!

I've ran this race 4-years in a row and every time I leave happier than I started!
This year was unfortunately not my year (crash & burn) but with the crowd, it got me going to the finish line.
I did fell like crap during the race, but I'm so glad it was at the Chicago Marathon, because in any other marathon I would've dropped out at mile 10. The crowd support is unbelievable that your ears are still ringing the next day.
As a runner I do get excited about the last 10 miles because I know what to expect:
- Cheerleaders at IIT
- Pilsen: Mariachi bands galore!
- China-town: Heavy drums and the street Dragons!
- The final 800 meter until the finish line

As a spectator you should expect:
- Seeing the runner you want at least 3 different times in different areas
- Commuting by train or bike is very accessible
- You will be part of the 3 million spectators out there!
- Most restaurants and bars usually host a view party or marathon morning deals!

When you run Chicago, expect it to be an all-day celebration; people will basically praise you if you have a medal around your neck, a race bib barely attached, and smelling gross because of your accomplishment!

As a runner: Enjoy all of what Chicago has to offer you that weekend; you won't get it any where else.

Highly recommend this race anyone that wants to qualify for Boston.
This race runs 8 loops that are about 3 miles per loop. The course is fully support.
Best part is the water bottle arrangement. You're allowed up to 2 bottles per person which you can grab at on every loop. There is also a drop zone for your bottle and they will place it back on the table according to you bib number.
Pros:
- Flat/Fast Course
- Water bottle station
- Great for spectators that don't want to chase the runners around
- Bib numbers are according to estimated times i.e. 30515 (first 3 numbers are the time goals)
Cons:
- Shoe tag that has to be returned ($30 fine)
- Pacer gap/ no pacers between 3:05 - 3:15
- If you're slower than 8:30/mile get ready to be lapped (can kill you mentally)
- Path not closed (guess due to price) bikers, runners, walkers are on the same path walking towards or away from you
Overall, this course is very fast and flat. On a given day this is a PR course!

I've ran Fort 2 Base 2 years in a row and lucky both times carpooled with a friend. This is a BIG plus!
The only issue is the parking/shuttle buses. If you drive up the Naval Base yourself, you're responsible for taking a shuttle to the start.
Big tip:
- Bring a friend to drop you off at the start and have them meet you at the end (it's a point to point race)
- It's 11.5 miles (nautical 10 miles)
Pros:
- Very scenic on a local running path
- If you're in the first pack you have the WHOLE naval base saluting you and welcoming in with a trumpet call
- The crazy hill at mile 10!
- Free pics of the race!
Cons:
- shuttle buses are confusing
- Parking not the best areas
- Race day packet pick-up you have to come very early (2 hrs advance)