This was my first time running this race after wanting to do it the previous two years but never committing to it. The course was very enjoyable, going down Canal Street, past Potawatomi and through the Harley-Davidson Museum area, followed by going through Miller Valley. I was surprised by the number of inclines throughout the race. I certainly wasn't expecting it and it isn't like they were steep inclines. Just those nice gradual ones that wear you down when there are a decent number of them. The number of aid stations was almost ridiculous, but in a good way. There is no way you could run this race and feel like you were dehydrated unless you skipped every station. Choices of water and Gatorade were nice but even nicer was the flavor of Gatorade changed at each station.

The after party was very festive and was worth staying around for; as were the Herzing University-provided free massages. They were quick but so worth waiting in a line for one. The two free beer tickets also was nice, if you wanted that. Being held in the parking lot was a great idea since there was plenty of room to move around and socialize with others. The swag was good: medal for the race plus the various discounts for several other products. The pickup process is quick and easy but the accompanying expo is a rather flat experience. Just some other races being promoted (offering tons of Halloween candy at each spot and typically $10 off the current registration price) but not much else. They really need to spark this up some.

All in all, it was a fun racing experience and I look forward to having the chance to run it again.