If you live in Toledo, you'll know that the Churchill's half marathon has been going on for a long time. A really long time - 49 years in 2016! I've run the half many times, in different course configurations and times of the year. Churchill's is held in November now and makes a great "last race" for a lot of the area runners. The current course is a point to point race, which is pretty unique for the area. There is a ton of free parking at the race finish line, and you will be bused over to the start line.
Pre race - the race starts at a high school so there is plenty of warm, comfortable indoor waiting space. You can use the restrooms in the school, which is a plus, or the port a potties outside. They even have the school's marching band to entertain you while you wait! It's easy to meet up with friends.
The course - there's a lot of variety - neighborhoods, along the river, and "hills"! There are not mountains, but pretty decent hills for Toledo. Especially the last one which hits around mile 12! Never the less, that just makes the course interesting and challenging. Make sure you train for the rolling hills on River Road!!
Course support - there are an average amount of water stops, so make sure you plan ahead for your water and fuel needs. Spectators are a little sparse, but the ones that are there are dedicated!
After "party" - there is a warming tent with food, hot soup and beer. Did I mention, beer?? Micro brews for your fueling after all of that work. Since it's a big club event for the Toledo Roadrunners, there are always a lot of friends to meet up with afterwards and enjoy the band.
Swag - the race shirts and medals are pretty awesome. Every Toledo running event that I attend in the cool weather promises at least one person wearing their Churchill's race shirt!
Full race recap: http://techchickadventures.com/2016/11/2016-49th-churchills-half-marathon-recap/