Race Information
What: Equinox Half Marathon
When: September 17, 2017
Distance: 13.1 Miles, Half Marathon
Where: Poudre Canyon, Fort Collins Colorado
Website: www.equinoxhalfmarathon.com

Pre-race
The Equinox Half Marathon is a fast, downhill race that runs you through the Poudre Canyon near Fort Collins, Colorado. Overall, I was extremely happy with this race. First, there is a shuttle bus service that is required in order to reach the starting area at the top of the canyon. Shuttles ran from 5am-5:30am (eesh, early) from a central area in Fort Collins. Despite being in a somewhat secluded area, the start area included water stations, coffee, tea, and plenty of bathroom facilities.

Race
During the race, the aid stations were well-stocked with water and Nuun hydration drinks as well as Honey Stinger gels upon request. Having the gel at the last aid station was a near miracle for me as it really got me through the last few miles. I also am impressed at a race offering gels, so that’s also a bonus.

Post-race
After the race, there was a live band and a fully-stocked food and beverage section to start the recovery process. Each runner also got a free beer from a local craft brewing company.

The medals and commemorative pint glasses are great as well as the long sleeve technical shirt. You can really tell that a lot of good design work and quality products were utilized.

Suggestions/Critiques
My only suggestion would be to increase some of the vendors, if possible, in the finishing area as I would have liked to browse more running-related tents after the race. Although there was a foam rolling station which was such a relief after running 13 miles.