Why run a half marathon, at the end of January, in 10 degrees, on snow and ice covered terrain, with wind coming from both the south AND the north? Because we're runners, and we love a challenge, and it brings us together, no matter what! That's the best part of this race. It's not about PR'ing, it's about toughing the cold and ice together, as the Chicago running community.

The course starts at Montrose, which is normally fairly easy to park. I suggest driving, since you'll want to spend as much time as possible in warmth before race start. This year was very cold, icy, and snowy (Thank you, Chiberia), but the camaraderie makes this race. I clustered in a group of 4 runners, and we took turns blocking the wind from each other. Everyone called out large ice patches, and MADE props to the volunteers who stood outside for hours, just so we had water and Gatorade.