This is a great run for a great cause. On May 22, 2011 Joplin was ransacked by a tornado. 161 lives were lost that day, many others lots theirs homes and places of business. Proceeds from registration fees support the community. If you are looking for a race that supports a great cause with a low key race, this is it!

T-shirts/SWAG-very nice. That half and 5k had individual colors. Additional items given were minimal, but still nice.

Aid Stations-fully stocked with plenty of water and Gatorade. Towards the end of the course, stations handed out industrial strength water soaked paper towels to cool off with. This was great, and many runners enjoyed them. One station even handed out water soaked sponges. Plus, plenty of port-a-potties if needed.

Course Scenery-The half route was one giant circle that took runners on the outer edges of Joplin. Lots of beautiful nature scenes to look at! I do have to mention, during the first mile of the route, banners are hung with the names of those that passed.

Expo Quality-The expo was minimal though, ran very nicely. Plenty of volunteers pointing your way to packet pick up and shirt pick up. A few vendors to purchase items and other community organizations.

Elevation Difficulty-The route is not 100% flat nor or the hills extremely difficult. Gradual inclines and declines didn't feel as if you are even running up a hill.

Parking/Access-If you stay at one of the three host hotels (or near by) you are able to utilize the shuttle bus to and from the race. At the end of the race the shuttle buses are stages right across the street, so no wondering around looking for them.

Race Management-was great, for the few years Joplin has been hosting this race everything went off without a hitch (well, for the runners anyway).

Overall-Be prepared for an emotional start. This year, a Mother who lost her husband and two young children to the storm was the race starter for the half. Her, along with family and friends run the 5k. She spoke of her husband and children, along with the pain she has/is enduring very strong for her to stand in front of all the runners and let them into her life. 161 seconds of silence is observed along with 161 balloons being released. It's an honor to be part of these moments.

During this weekend, many other races are held around the state of MO. Out of all them, this is the one to go to!