I've taken part in the April Fools Half Marathon in AC since its inaugural race in 2012. Over the years this race has gone from great to phenomenal. The race director really pays attention to feedback and it shows.

What do runners want that this race provides? Great communication leading up to the race, multiple locations for packet pickup (this was added after I registered, I opted to do race morning pickup for a small fee), bag check, starting on time, flat/fast course, on course entertainment, free race pictures, wonderful volunteers, unique medals, costume contests, and yummy post-race snacks, and free beer. Yes, yes, and more yes! Much appreciated!

I live an hour from Atlantic City so I always opt to just drive the morning of the race. Back in the day (2012 and 2013) I stayed at a hotel the night before but I never found it to be particularly restful - lots of bachelor and bachelorette parties occur on the weekends in Atlantic City which means the potential for loud neighbors is high. Just a heads up for anyone who might be traveling in from out of town.

The drive was uneventful (just how a drive should be) and parking at Resorts was free (just how I like it). I needed to get there early because packet pickup was from 6am - 7am so I arrived at 6:15 and quickly got set up with my race bib and bag. The bag contained the race shirt (blue - I love this year's color, design, and fabric) and a few freebies - including saltwater taffy!

I planted myself in a lounge area and waited until closer to the start of the race to go outside. This was the most relaxed I've felt before I race ever and I was able to zone out for about a half hour. Having the option for bathrooms inside a casino rather than portapotties is always nice, too!

After the singing of the National Anthem, we were off and running just after 8am.

This was the first time I ran this race solo and I knew that I could achieve a PR, given my training and my familiarity with the course. I went in feeling very confident. The weather was fantastic and I knew that it could be my day.

I decided to run the first mile and then settle into 30:30 intervals. I wanted to play with my speed on the run intervals and I knew that with short bursts I would be able to keep a steady pace but also push when necessary.

The first 7 miles were fairly consistent. I felt good and strong while running, both on the boardwalk and when we turned onto the street.

I knew where the boards were a bit more springy, where the road slopes to the left, and where to put myself so that my feet were even and I felt secure. I know some people don't like out and back courses; personally, I love that I had the opportunity to see my friends and cheer for them along the way.

The volunteers energy at the water stops was contagious. The view was fantastic and while I slowed the second half of the race due to a headwind, I felt really good. Once I hit the main area of the boardwalk, I knew exactly what I needed to do.

I did my best and didn't give up. When I saw the clock as I approached the finish line, I was elated! An 8 minute PR was mine!

I went along to grab a bagel, drink, and Johnson's popcorn. There were other treats as well but I wanted to get my bag from bag check and my free beer at the bar! Priorities!

I've already registered for 2018!

For more pictures and a bit more wordiness: http://www.scootadoot.org/2017/04/28/pr-race-2017-ac-april-fools-half-marathon/