I had originally signed up for the 8K. However, I know it is always cold in November so when I picked up my bib on Sunday (was in and out in 10 minutes), I changed it to run the 5K. I did not read the information carefully because later on that week I found out that there was race day packet pickup. That is what I get for not reading carefully the race information.

One thing I dislike about racing in Lincoln Park is the parking. I knew it would be a hassle so I made sure to get there early to get a spot. Indeed I did (5 minutes from the start) but I had to wait about 2 hours in my car. Not sure if it was worth it. I left my car at 8:50 to use the port-a-potties and run the race.

There were 2 waves in this race. I did not plan it carefully because I missed the 1st wave. By the time I made it to the race and was done using the port-a-potties, people were lining up for the 2nd wave which began at 9:30. I was annoyed (mainly at myself) because I could have been in the 1st wave if I had left earlier.

Finally it was time to run and it was a total mess. The path was narrow and there were so many people on it. There were lots of walkers (which is fine) but I wished they would have moved over to the right. I had no time goal for this race but just to have fun. I tried. I was happy with the weather because it did warm up. It was CROWDED. I am not a fast runner at all and found myself weaving around to pass the runners.

The turnaround was a little before Irving Park Road. I don’t remember at what point the 5k and 8K runners split up but eventually we were reunited. Yeah, this merging area was suitable.

By now my goal was just to get to the finish line. And that is exactly what I did. I was happy to be done and collect my medal. But before I could do that, I had to get through a gridlock of people also trying to collect their medal.

I didn’t stay afterwards to enjoy the festivities but it looked like people were having a good time after the race. Me? I just wanted to get out of there. I still had to walk about 1/4 mile to my car. The race didn't start and end at the same location.

Overall, not a big fan of the race. The path was too narrow for the number of people running. I am not planning to run this race again. I prefer running races downtown because for me it is easier to get to it.