If you're looking for a challenging race with breathtaking views of a fantastic city - this race is for you!

Kansas City Race Management doesn't lie when they say this city is hilly! HILLS....FOR....DAYS! Be prepared to test your leg muscles and your endurance! But, that finish line is just so much sweeter when you complete this race.

If you can conquer the hills you will not be disappointed with the gorgeous views - often running past historical buildings and beautiful museums. I made a mental list of places I wanted to visit after I finished!

The post race party was awesome! Live band, huge gong to hit to celebrate your race, bounce houses and games for the kids and FOOD! Did I say food?!?! I was extremely impressed with the post race spread of food. Racers had their choice of hot food including chicken sandwiches, BBQ pork and other race fair; including bananas and all the water you needed! Chik-fil-A was there handing out their famous chicken sandwiches as well!

There were not corral assignments for this race, but pace teams were lined up accordingly. There were plenty of porta-potties, and the lines did seem to move quickly. I didn't see many potties along the race but I do know they were there.

The aide stations were well-equipped with water and gatorade and there were also a few spots along the course with fuel as well. Spectators did a great job at all the aide stations to keep us motivated, but it wasn't super crowded with support along other areas of the course that were not near major intersections or aide stations.

I cannot comment on the parking as I stayed only one block from the start and finish lines! The Sheraton was attached to the Race Expo as well. I HIGHLY recommend this option for the convenience alone! Great location and reasonable hotel rates as well. The race starts at 7am, so there was NO problem enjoying the post-race celebration and still getting back in time to shower before hotel check-out. Book your stay early though, just in case.

I completed this half marathon as part of the I35 challenge series. The next day I traveled to Des Moines to complete another half marathon as part of the challenge. You earn the I35 challenge medal when you're complete. Great option and fun to knock out two different states in one weekend!

I would absolutely recommend this fantastic race!