If you went to a Big 10 school (or are a huge Big 10 fan) and live in Chicago, this 10K is a must. It's GREAT for new runners and avid runners alike, and brings the BEST post-race party I have ever experienced (read: people actually STAY and drink beer and hang out/play games afterwards, not just grab a beer, drink half of it and head home).

Pros:
+ New course this year, I like it a lot better than the old one as it goes through more of downtown and starts and ends in the park (easier to get to than Soldier Field)
+ Great swag
+ 312 beer! Always a win
+ Such a great theme. People get so into it! Mascots are there, cheerleaders are there, there are tents for each school, etc
+ Easy packet pick-up
+ Seamless gear check
+ Swag is different for each school, which is great and makes me actually want to use it later at games/tailgates/etc! As an alumna, I love getting more Illini athletic gear and representing my school
+ Fun games afterwards like bags, football-themed workouts and a gigantic version of beer pong
+ Well-managed; all of the information you need is available to you and sent in reminder e-mails before race day
+ Free sausages! Like, a straight up lunch meal's worth served on a bun. I forgot to grab it this year and I am still upset with myself. I'm not crying, you're crying.
+ Great music, enthusiastic turnout, great race topped off with perfect weather. Really couldn't ask for much more.

Cons:
- The course remains pretty crowded throughout and the last half is on the lakefront path where you can probably only fit 3 people wide. Could maybe make this better through longer time between waves
- Too many Iowa fans... just kidding ;)