Mother's Day weekend in Chicago, what could be better than a 10k at Grant Park? Judging by the participation numbers, a 5k and a 2 mile walk, to start. The Komen Race for the Cure seems a good fit for Mother's day and the popularity of the Komen brand almost requires a venue as large as Grant Park no matter how many events are being held. Even with three events of varying participation sizes, lengths and disciplines (walking and running), this was a well-run event that I am compelled to recommend.

It starts with the signup, and signup was relatively pain free. Site registration is required, and fundraising is encouraged throughout the site to the point that it took me a while to determine whether or not it was required as well (it was not). That issue aside, no complaints regarding sign up. Cost was in line with other 10ks in the city and the CARA member discount made this a great deal ($35 total cost). Pickup was at Fleet Feet Old Town- easy to get to location- and for a fee, they offered packet mailing.

The course had some great scenery for out of towners to enjoy, while incorporating a few twists that veteran Chicago Marathon runners might appreciate. First, runners headed south and got to actually go down Mount Roosevelt to head west and then, after running along Michigan Ave and back towards Columbus, runners were treated to running through the marathon's start corral location before heading back east for a nice out and back along the lakefront. Mile markers were present along with gun time clocks along the course and there were four aid stations on the course, with two of them accessible twice due to the out and back.

Swag was just a cotton tshirt, but for the cost, I can't really complain, especially when the race itself is essentially a charity fundraiser. The atmosphere gets high marks- there were tens of thousands in attendance, and the MC during the pre-race warmup highlighted several cancer survivors that were participating in the day's events. The post race atmosphere was also very upbeat and the volunteers were all smiling and helpful before, during and after the race.

The 10k had low participation numbers compared to not only the other events, but many other 10k races in city, but assuming they bring it back next year (and I hope they do) it is definitely going to be on my calendar when mapping out my race schedule. Highly recommended.