Though I'm not a Big 12 alum, it was cool to see a ton of runners out sporting their school pride and going head-to-head in some friendly competition. The post-race after party was like no other, live bands and beer and games. Felt like a tailgate. But before we get to the party, lets start with the race and all that went before.

Parking: All the parking garages in the vicinity are opened up and free to park, so parking shouldn't be an issue. Remember which garage you're in, or you'll end up like I did, cold and sore after a race searching for the right garage.

Race: Well-marked, appropriate amount of aid stations and great finish line. Downtown tends to have a lot of hills and this course was no different. Lots of hills, so be prepared. The good thing though, is that if you can conquer this race, you can conquer almost any course in the KC metro area. A great tune-up race before Rock The Parkway half-marathon. After running the Big 12 12k, Ward Parkway felt like a flat pancake.

Swag: Cool 3/4-length baseball-style long sleeve shirt. A nice change from the 100% cotton tees or dry fits you usually see at races. Medal is a good size for a 12k race, and it has all the Big 12 schools' logos on the ribbon so it's a great souvenir for any alum runners.

After party: Live bands, games, beer...need I say more? Unfortunately, I had plans after the race so I had to dip out. In that case, was the high entry fee of $55 worth it for me? Probably not. But if you plan on staying and celebrating your race and the Big 12, then its reasonable.

This year, I skipped the Westport St. Patrick's 4 mile race to run Big 12. I like that one a bit more, has more of a local and less commercialized feel to it and the key lime pie after the race is a perk. If you have to choose between the 2 and are not set on a specific distance, I would choose the Westport 4 mile race for fun and Big 12 for more of a challenge. There is also a 5k race at the Big 12, but I ran the 12k.