A really cool little 5K in the suburbs. The race starts in the parking lot at Arlington Park, and finishes on the track. Yes, you run about a half mile on the actual track. The rest of the course isn't much to write home about - it just winds around the Arlington Park grounds before approaching the track. You do get to go through the stables and apartments area, which is something that not everyone gets to do. But you don't do this race for that. You do it to run on the track.

Once you get on the track, it's like what I imagine running on jello would feel like. It's a little wobbly footing, and it takes awhile to get used to it, because for a time I felt like I wasn't moving forward. On the homestretch, you can see yourself on the jumbotron and hear the race announcer call your name. Upon finishing, you're directed to the winner's circle for the coldest bottles of water ever and a "feedbag" of snacks (think granola bars and candy). You also get 1 free beer- and it's a giant 20 oz beer, and amazing. There was a deejay spinning tunes, and everyone got to sit outside and enjoy the lovely evening.

If you bring spectators, they are allowed to come into the park and cheer for you from the stands! So definitely bring your fans. I'd also recommend picking up your packet in advance at the local running store (if you can), because the line can get rather long.