The Hypothermic Half is one of the Running Room multi-location/multi-date races that occurs in cities all over Canada and in a couple of places in the US between January and March. The Moncton event has taken place in mid-February both in 2013 and again this year.

Last year debuted a new course for the Moncton Hypo Half as it was moved to the Caledonia industrial park, just off of the TCH as it passes through Moncton. Last year was mild, with slushy road conditions. This year, the road conditions were terrific but the trade off was a considerable drip in temperature. With windchill, the temperature at gun time was almost 20 below zero.

The course itself is two loops of roads within the industrial park. There is not much in the way of hills, traffic or scenery on course, but it is a well attended event, capped at 200 participants and sells out each year. There is only one aid station on course, but because of the looping design, you pass it four times (twice each loop). Dedicated volunteers are at each turn to ensure you don't go off course and their enthusiasm is terrific. As you can imagine, a mid-February race doesn't draw many spectators aside from friends and family.

The race begins and ends at a Molson brewery, meaning that some pretty refreshing beverages are available at the finish line, although really, beer is not something I want to drink after running 13 miles. There is also water, although I think I may be in the minority having that as my preference.

The post-race brunch and award/draw prizes are fantastic. Both years I have done this event, the brunch has been held at the Ramada Inn across town. A huge spread of delicious food is prepared for racers to have an all you can eat buffet. Racers can chow down on bacon, pasta, soup, stew, fruits and so on while chatting about the race and running in general with other participants. It is very leisurely and a great way to refuel after what is generally a cold but enjoyable race!