I ran this marathon with a huge desire to PR. I trained for it, worked hard for it and mentally prepped for it. But I knew that the course can make or break that. This race did not disappoint! The course is extremely flat and speed friendly. There are plenty of water stops and volunteers are everywhere you look. The pacers are spread out by 5min so it is easy to find who you want to run with. The expo before the race is alright. Very well organized and has all the essentials but it will not blow you away. You run through the University of Illinois and the surrounding areas.

Pre-Race Weekend: One of the great things about this race is the pre-race communication. they get you from all angles. Their social media is on point and they do a great job send emails with relevant information rather than sponsorship spam. Right before the weekend, they emailed out the race weekend guides. Those were the absolute best. Everything you could ever think of was in there.

Race Weekend Expo: The expo was kind of what you would expect from a race in a non-metropolitan area. Small but everything you could think of was there. All the last minute gear and gels and food was there for purchase. There are a ton of volunteers that pointed you in the right direction and everyone of them had an answer to my questions. Personally, I would skip the pasta party. I am never a big fan of those and I can be a pretty picky eater when it comes race time.

Marathon: The marathon started at the University of Illinois. Once again, the volunteers killed it! They were very helpful and informative. Before the race there was free bagels and coffee. There were plenty of portable bathrooms and a large parking lot to warm up in. Also, the bag drop was close to the starting line so that you didn't have to run around. Like I mentioned, the course is super flat and it runs through the University of Illinois and the surrounding neighborhoods. There is one part in the first half of the marathon where it gets really packed because you run on a park trail, so just keep an eye out for it. There are plenty of water stations, about every 2 miles, but they were lacking on the bathroom situation on the course. Also, I did not see too many aid stations, but I was not looking for them. You end the race by running into the University of Illinois football stadium and out of the tunnel on to the field. It is a cool experience.

After The Race: After you finish you are given an awesome medal, a water, and a blanket. From the field you make your way into the concourse where there is a ton of food. From pizza to pasta to fruit and sports drinks. Load up on food, pick up your gear, and head outside to enjoy an awesome block party and a nice cold beer.

Overall Thoughts: I think that this was a great race and weekend. Everything is organized very well and the course is so fast! Circle the date for next year and write PR right next to it!