[Disclaimer: I am the "arch Run Angel," captain of the Title Nine Run Angel team that is present at the Bay Area races, and have helped put on other Title 9K races in the series. I worked behind the scenes for all locations and have been present in Boulder and Spokane.]

The Title 9K series is one that is near and dear to my heart because it's where I first found a running "home." A women's event (that has since opened up to allow U18 boys as well, to help encourage family running,) the 9K distance is one of the many things that make it unique. Instant PR, right? How many other 9K races have you done?

Perks:
- This is HUGE. Not only are running strollers allowed, there are two divisions solely dedicated to them: one for walkers, one for runners. These gals are FAST, don't be fooled! Most races either say strollers are not allowed or that they'll turn a blind eye if they start way in the back. The 2015 Spokane Title 9K OVERALL 9K winner was a stroller runner. Wrap your head around that!
- Race tees are always wearable (no logos of sponsors on the back) as everyday tees. U18 participants receive a hat.
- Reusable goodie bag from packet pick-up has snacks and samples inside and is just the right size for lunch. These are always a favorite.
- Free Ragamuffin Run pre-race is always a highlight. There are three heats: the Rumbling Reds (ages 2-3,) Blazing Blues (ages 4-5,) and Yahoo Yellows (ages 6-8). Simply sign them up at the registration tent the day of the event. All kids receive a snack, previously from Clif Kids, in more recent years from Honey Stinger.
- The 'expo' doesn't sell anything at the event. It's more of a forum to try out local eats, see new gear from Salomon Running and the like. Free snacks! This could be a bummer, if you like shopping expos.
- The final aid station on the course is always chocolate. Just chocolate.
- "Catch a Run Angel" is always fun. Catch a Run Angel on the course for a raffle ticket and win great prizes.
- You don't have to be fast to win. Submitting your running story pre-race could score you a prize.

Bummers:
- This particular location has not been on the event calendar since 2014. The flagship Mother's Day Boulder Race is ongoing, and the Spokane race has been revived to much fanfare.
- If your 18-or-over son/nephew/husband wants to run with you, they'd have to bandit the course, which naturally I don't endorse.
- The course is not closed, so there are other runners/walkers/bike riders occasionally on the path as well.
- No medals. Lots of folks run for the bling. Instead finishers get something else, usually a Title 9K necklace. One year it was water bottles.
- No age group prizes, but instead, division prizes. I only list this as a bummer because most folks want to see how they did in their AG. Prizes are given to the fastest overall woman, fastest girl U18, fastest stroller, and to the three best stories.

My feelings on the Bay Area series:
http://littlebeastling.com/2013/07/29/why-the-title-9k-is-more-than-a-race/

More about the Title 9K:
http://www.timeoutwithtitlenine.com/title-9k-2/t9k-events-2015/