I've spent my fair amount of time in Chicago (I went to college on the Northside of Chicago) and have been in town for summer races and the Chicago Marathon in October, but this is the first time I've done the F3 Half Marathon. I was expecting cold, which it was (though mid 30s in January isn't bad in Chicago, I've been through worse). My only downfall is that I'm horrible controlling my body temperature below 40* so no matter how many layers, I'm kind of in a catch 22.

Packet Pick Up: Started a week before the race and was held at various Fleet Feet and Running Stores in the Chicago area to give the most amount people time to get their bibs. Numbers were assigned as you picked up your bib. I went to the Old Town Location and it was quick and easy. Gave you a chance to shop local as well. Option for race day pick up, though cost $20

Swag: long sleeved light sweatshirt. Only downside was I feel like it runs small.

Race Day Parking/Getting to the race: I stayed in the West Loop and took an Uber to Soldier Field. Other people took public transportation or drove in. Driving in meant longer lines for race day parking at Soldier Field, so be prepared. What helps is a 10 AM start time for the half marathon.

Pre Race: We at least stayed warm in Soldier Field's United Club. Various booths were set up, but no food. Indoor bathrooms also a plus (one of the lines had no women's line and a men's line out the door!). Gear check was indoors if you had stuff to check. Plenty of announcements that were clear as to what was going on as well.

Corrals: self line up, but I did see a few volunteers get on runners who were trying to move up to get to pace groups in the corral ahead of them. Come on, give them a break.

The course: relatively flat, though some minor hills that I felt like were associated with bridges. The first part of mile 1 was around Soldier Field and then the rest of the course was out and back on the Lake Front Path. Not a whole lot to see, but you get some views of the city. Downside is that there was construction on course, s there was mud involved. Additionally, potions of the course got really congested with people sine runners were coming both directions.

Aid Stations: anywhere from 1-2 miles between them. Water at every aid station and some odd sports drink I'd never heard of. Whatever happened to Gatorade and Powerade? For me it meant no electrolytes since I don't do new stuff race day.

Weather : 30s and sunny

Post Race: bling, water and bananas post race as you finished. Afterwards, people headed back to the United Club. You could check your results and get a print out, get some pictures, stretch, etc. Also gave you a chance to warm up if you were meeting people.

Overall, a good race. I'm wondering if they could vary up the course from year to year on different parts of the Lake Front Trail just to change things up. Also wish there was a little more food available after the race!