This is something that I don't say very often. As I am on a mission to see all the new places I can, I don't go back to run the same race multiple times (with the exception of a few local races). The Eau Claire Half Marathon changed that.

The race management team is spectacular and truly has the overall runner experience as their number 1 goal. Packet pick-up and the expo are well organized and easy to get through.

There is no parking at the start/finish line but they have several shuttles running from various places in town to get you where you need to be, without any hassle (my hotel was actually 3 blocks from one of the shuttle lots so I just walked there in the morning to catch the bus!)

The community support along virtually the entire course adds to the excitement of the race. You are never alone on the course but since it's a smaller race you have room to run your race and have all the support you need!!

There are a few hills along the course, but nothing that anyone should be afraid of!!

Word of advice - enjoy the BluGold Mile!! The support an motivation as you wind through the UWEC campus is spectacular!! Just take it in, and use that adrenaline to help push you through those last few miles!

Be sure to pay attention to those race photographers! There are throughout the course and you can download your pics for FREE!!! This is amazing!! I wish more races did this!!

The finish line is truly a party, and has something for everyone!! Yes, you have your usual post race food (banana's, bagels, beer, water) but this year they also brought in food trucks with additional food options for you to purchase! The fresh hot donuts were worth the 13 miles I ran to get them!

Like I said, I'll be back next year and I'm bringing friends!

You can find my full race recap here: http://crazyhamster.run/2018/05/sometimes-you-run-just-so-you-can-eat-all-the-donuts.html

Link to this review