I remember when this race was only a dream. I was picking up a pair of running shoes and Mel Diab the owner had put up a sign talking about having a half marathon in Palos Heights IL. It was a dream that only about a year later was recognized and one of my favorite races that I do every year.

It is an out and back course that is on Rt. 83 and follows along from Palos all the way to Lemont and back. There is both a flat and a bit of a hill course with an forests on both the left and right sides of the road. The course is completely blocked off from traffic and there are plenty of side streets that easily allow volunteers, family members having well wishes on the course to various runners.

Because the race was created by Mel and other interested parties that are seasoned runners it was even in the first year a huge success. Over the years it has continued to improve with more potta potties, more water stops and more cheering from people along the course.

Because it is an out and back course it allows you to not only see the elites coming back also lets you cheer on both your faster friends and those who need a hand or high five as you are returning on the course.

I like the improvements even at the finish as well. A few years ago they extended the amount of bathrooms with this year having more wheelchair sized ones that allow runners to easily change after or before the race.

They have pacers who are local celebrity runners and I heard countless stories about how they enjoyed helping others finish their race and felt so empowered helping people along the way.

The packet pick up is fantastic with both a Saturday pick up that extends from 9-3 and then the day of the race. Parking in plentiful and because it is a local event it is definitely a fan favorite for many local running groups.

It is also a place that elites can participate with race money. Mel also donates to the American Cancer Society and a local special needs facility. SSWRA. This is also the first year they had a wheelchair runner participate and they accommodated that runner with a faster start and also I noticed someone who was doing the 10K with crutches on both sides with a guide.

I love this race because not only is a great race for the beginner but also for the advanced athlete. I will be blogging about some of the improvements Mel will add to the race. One he mentioned was opening up the 10K to more people.

So if you are looking for a fantastic way to get out of the hibernation and get training you should investigate the First Midwest Half and 10K next year.