Having been about 5 months into my reintroduction to running last year (apologies for selecting the incorrect race date in the race information section) I decided that I should test myself with a 5k. I didn't actually put much thought into this and registered for this race quite late. The organizers were very accommodating and despite the late entry they had everything waiting for me that date.

This race stuck out to me because it is a 5-7 minute drive from my house and the park, Katherine Rose, is a frequent weekend date for me and my family. I had run the sidewalk trails before and wanted to really test myself. When looking for a race to run I am also always on the search for the ones who support a cause. These races will catch my attention before almost all others.

I remember the registration cost being very reasonable, though it has been long enough that I can't recall the exact cost. The t-shirts provided were fairly standard but a good quality cotton. Race packet pickup was offsite but was an easy process. Racers were encouraged to dress up in things like tutus, tiaras, special t-shirts or anything w'ed be comfortable in. Adding this layer of fun in is always refreshing because it makes events more inclusive.

Katherine Rose is a very well maintained park on the edge of a wooded area and the walkway itself is also in good condition. The course is fairly flat and isn't challenging at all. It is a good course for beginner 5k racers to cut their teeth on because it doesn't stress the body out with a lot of turns/curves or elevation changes.

Awards were given for top performers in the male and female categories as well as within the age groups. These awards weren't extravagant but an iPad was offered for the winner of the Sugar ShakeOff, which was part of the post race activities that I wasn't able to stay for. This race did result in a PR for me, which was an added bonus, even though I didn't win any awards.

If you are in the DFW this is a fun, intimate event that will work well for you if you want to race but not have to worry about a huge crowd.