OVERVIEW: This is a race that does not come easy! The Get In Gear Half Marathon is an out an back with a small loop that runs down the Mississippi River in Minneapolis. Starting at the Minnehaha Falls and going as far down the river as Gold Medal Park and then back. With this course you have three large hills that you are conquering.
WEATHER: The race is always a toss up for weather. This year it was absolutely perfect, but in years past it has rained and even snowed on race day.
COURSE: This course is obviously very beautiful. The river is amazing and you get plenty of city views. Other than the three hills, the road is even and there is plenty of volunteers to guide you.
AID STATIONS: There were four water/gatorade stations on the course. I did not pay much attention to First Aid areas, but I am sure they had those as well.
START/FINISH: The start and finish were both at the Minnehaha Pavilion Park area. Plenty of space to warm up. The start is a shotgun start and the corral is very narrow and completely packed. If you want to run fast or run with a pacer, get in the corral early! They had a lot of pacers so that was very nice for runners. Bag check was great. There were a lot of porter potties, but not enough. I suggest going earlier than later.
EXPO: Nothing much to say about this. There were maybe 5 tents set up for the bib pick up. It took me about 3min to pick up my bib and get out of there.
FOOD: They have a ton of post race food. Yogurt, chocolate milk, banana, peanut butter, biscuits, candy, and chips.
SUGGESTIONS: Let loose on the downhill and save energy on the up hill. There is a big hill at mile 10 so save some juice for that. Get a beer at Sea Salts after the race. Get in the corral early.

I like this race. It is a great way to start of the racing season. I'll do it again!