This is an extremely fun race for BTN fans and runners alike! Every year has been a smooth production given the massive turnout that is produced at Grant Park.

PROS
- The start corrals are smoothly organized and it seemed like all the runners I was with had a similar pace. None of them seemed to be over crowded.
- The course itself seemed wide enough to accompany all runners, and running back with views of the Chicago skyline was great!
- Fleet feet puts out all the stops for the post-race celebration. Beer, brats, alumni tents, samples, fun games, live music. This race has it all! I left with an overflowing goodie bag (and new 10K PR!).
post race celebration
- I love how everyone has a chance to rep their 'team'. The collective commaraderie between schools is a lot of fun, and it's a lot of fun seeing the mascots and cheerleaders. Some previous athletes will usually show up as well which is neat!
- The course is a lot of fun and well-planned, with slip n slides, frequent water stops, port o potties, and gatorade offered.

CONS
- This year the race started an hour earlier, which was a bit brutal (7 am start for commuters is no fun) but probably well-worth it given the July heat.
- Packet pick up at Fleet Feet took a loooong time. I think I stood in line for a solid 25 minutes. They should really have a faster process for it, a lot of people were swapping shirts. The line only seemed to grow by the time I left.
- Cell service in Grant Park after the race is very limited. Have a game plan for meeting up with friends or else you might not be able to find them!
- T shirts seemed to run a bit small
- I strongly dislike running in the McCormick tunnel, especially in the July heat. It's loud, echo-y, throws my Garmin off, and I feel really claustrophobic. At least it's at the start of the race and not the end!