Yes, it's in a shopping center parking lot. Yes, it's in March in Chicago, when the wind whips your face and freezes (as it did one year) the tears to your cheeks.

But hey, it's St. Patrick's Day, they give out green shirts and pot o' gold age group medals, and there's nothing wrong with that. Worth it if you live in the area and want a tune up for the Shamrock Shuffle 8k, which is usually a week or two later.

The race organizers, All Community Events, are competent and professional , and while this isn't necessarily one of their signature races they get a nice turnout and provide a good experience especially for less experienced runners. Not a bad place to start your running career or your season.