I ran this half in 2018 and 2019. This is a local favorite and great for those coming into town for the Derby festivities. From being called to the post with the trumpet, to running through Churchill Downs, and ending down by waterfront- you get to experience such great aspects of Louisville.

The half course is pretty much flat- nothing really exciting about that. There are so many types and groups of people supporting you on your run it makes you appreciate the flat boring course so you can focus on them. The scenery passing by Louisville Slugger, Old Louisville and Churchill Downs is great for those of us that live here, as well as those new to the city.

One of my favorite parts is seeing the horses out with the trainers while you're running through Churchill. It makes me feel powerful like a racehorse, and gives me a little boost coming out into mile 9.

There rest of the course is flat going back into downtown. The volunteers between miles 10 and 12 give out cold orange slices, and those are like a gift from the running gods! The very last stretch to the finish is downhill and its a nice way to finish strong.

Post race is Mylar blanket, usual race snacks, picture area, free beer. They also have food trucks there for Derby but open if you want a different kind of after race food.

You can also purchase an optional bourbon bottle limited to the event with the Ky Derby Festival logo on it with your name, time and bib. It's a really nice keepsake besides the usual medal, bib, and t-shirt. (which all VERY nice for this event BTW)

Highly recommend this race as a gem to what Kentucky has to offer.