The Minneapolis Hot Chocolate 15k was the race that never happened this year, thanks to a blizzard that weekend. The race organizers canceled the 15k, and welcomed all participants to run the 5k instead. Since it would take me well over an hour to travel each way in the near white-out conditions, I opted to run the 15k mileage on my treadmill rather than brave the elements. I chose this race because the mileage fit into my half marathon training plan, so I wasn't willing to compromise on distance.

Therefore, I cannot accurately comment on the race organization or the aid stations. I can say that the scenery around Boom Island is typically nice, so that rating hold true. Also, I loved the 1/4 zip shirt from the race. Obviously, I do not have the medal because I stayed home, but it looked lovely in the pictures. A friend of mine picked up my packet, so I also cannot comment on the packet pickup process, or the expo.

I would like to note that I do not hold anything against the race organizers for this one, since they cannot control the weather and I think they did what was best for the majority of participants, especially considering that races such as this one often pull in large numbers of beginner runners who may not be properly equipped to run in extreme conditions. Also, parking and traffic can be difficult in Minneapolis on the best of days, so having the added snow surely made it even more difficult.

I would consider registering for this race in the future, but I would do so when prices were low, in case of weather concerns again.