This is my second time doing the Canal Run. I was excited to run this race as we would be in Houghton/Hancock for a friends wedding (which was on Friday). I ran this race a *little* hungover, and didn't do as well as I thought I would.

They didn't have a bib pick up any other time besides Friday afternoon and Saturday morning (at the race finish line), so my aunt had to pick up my bib. This was OK because she lives 1 mile from the start line so it was easy to pick up in the morning. We didn't participate in it, but they have a pasta dinner catered by the Keweenaw Co-Op (they catered our Rehearsal Dinner for our wedding and it was amazing).

We were able to drive to the start which is located at beautiful McLain State Park. The start line is what you would expect in such a small race - a line drawn on the pavement with spray paint. Haha. Some pre-race announcements were stated and the gun went off.

The course starts off with nice rolling hills. A couple large-ish climbs in the mix. The aid stations could be better marked with one table of water and one table of powerade. The volunteers were trying their best, but I don't think they could keep up with middle of the pack people. Especially once the 1/2 Marathon, 10 Mile and 5 mile were all mixed in.

Last 1.5 miles is a tough, gradual climb. At the finish line, you celebrate with Mitch and MaryAnn - local (annoying) radio celebs. The age-group awards were made of copper (it's the Copper Country!). My dad placed 3rd in his age group, Eric 1st in his age group and me 1st in my age group. I think the competition isn't as great as it used to be in the 10 miler, now that the 1/2 marathon has been added. Though I think it is a great way to get the community active together.

Best part: FREE race photo downloads courtesy of Brockit Photography. LOVE LOVE LOVE. Now only if I was photogenic.