This race was an unexpected treat! I chose the 1/2 Sauer 1/2 Kraut race because I wanted to work toward a long-distance race goal at the start of summer, knowing I'd be training for a fall marathon through the heat of the summer months. I was so thrilled with this small, local race. It was very affordable - only $65 for the half, or $69 for the full. Bib pick-up was very low key and quiet, and I popped in and out with my shirt and bib in just 5 minutes. On race day, I arrived at Pennypack Park pretty early to get a parking spot in the lot. Parking spots are limited, but there was additional street parking very close to the starting area. Leading up to the race, there was a German accordion player who kept the atmosphere lively. The bathroom situation was clean and accessible - one long row of port-a-potties directly next to the starting line. There was also water offered while runners waited, which was very helpful as it was a hot and humid morning.

I originally signed up to run the full marathon at this event, but with the hot weather leading up to race day, I knew I wouldn't be able to commit to 26.2 miles. This race allowed me to stop at the 13.1 mark and cross the finish line, without having to switch bibs. The person running the results booth made a quick note about my distance switch, and I was able to head over to the post-race party.

Overall, this was a challenging yet scenic course. Pennypack Park is covered in trees, with streams lining the race route, which helped it to feel cooler than it was. There are a few very challenging hills throughout the course, but the race website gives fair warning as to which mile markers to be weary of. The hills are steep, but fortunately are followed by a nice downhill to coast off the tension. The volunteers at the water stations were very friendly and encouraging, and wore German dirndles and lederhosen to match the theme of the race. The course felt very difficult, but I still managed to unexpectedly beat my personal half marathon record by over 7 minutes. I missed placing in my age group by just one spot, but I still felt so excited to be part of this race.

After the race, runners can pick up a printed ticket with their race results, after grabbing lite snacks offered in front of a small camper stationed by the start. The after-party is just a short 10 minute drive from the park, complete with a nice outdoor dining area, live accordion music, and German dancing. Runners receive two tickets that are good for a free beer or a German bratwurst. I will say that the pre- and post-race "swag" were my favorite parts of the event! Getting to mingle with other runners while drinking a FREE refreshing beer and refueling with a brat and sauerkraut was very enjoyable, and made this introverted runner feel excited to be part of the larger running community.

I would strongly recommend this race for new or returning runners, as an alternative and retreat from downtown Philadelphia races. Excellent execution, great benefits, and beautiful scenery earned this one an A in my book.