As an alternative to the Polar Dash, this race in march hopefully allows for a bit warmer weather to avoid the bitter Chicago Cold. Then again the Chicago winter bites from late December to early April.

Another of Team Ortho's races, it offers a similar course, swag and experience. One advantage is a winter half marathon race right at the center of Chicago. The course can be considered scenic is your view of a frozen lake is appealing. Otherwise, the lakefront breeze can certainly make for an uncomfortable run. Pretty flat from start to finish so a fast finish is within your grasp. The pacing team comes from solid members from the NIKE Chicago Marathon pacers so you can guarantee splits to be right on queue.

Expo and race day festivities are nothing spectacular to rave about because its not a glamorous event. You are there to run because its fun, looking forward to being with friends and garnering race creds of getting your butt outside when everyone else is on the couch. Remember the worst alternative is the Shamrock shuffle where you are herded like cattle for 5 miles through the streets of Chicago. For that reason along, the Get Luck 21K gets my vote on a winter/spring running event.