This is an amazing hilly challenging adventure with surprising scenery and the uniqueness of running through two states and time zones. The trail portion of the race is especially beautiful and the softer surface helps gives your legs a break (more power with less effort). I was very entertained by the cowboy/bandit surprising us near the 5 mile mark, engaging with each runner and threatening to chase us (trying to distract us from running while going uphill). I was also amazed by a showgirl runner (girl running in showgirl suit with feathers) inspiring others with high fives and inspirational words along the course. Found runners encouraging other runners throughout the course. Encountered some of these folks on the trail part of the race and that was very helpful to me. The course was not extremely well marked late in the race (follow the orange arrows) at about mile 11-12 but that could be remedied with signs. The water stops/volunteers seemed to be adequate. Runners from 23 states and Canada competed in this race. Even though I had a rib injury, I taped up with KT tape and was able to manage a hard-fought 1:47 (I took many photographic breaks), the fastest half-marathon I have run since 1999. That was good for 4th place in my age group (45-49). The scenery really spoke to me during this race and inspired me to run faster. There were several breathtaking scenic moments (for example the Davis Dam). I was fortunate to win a free race entry to this race by #RunChatHunt (from #RunChat scavenger hunt) and they paid for my hotel stay as well (RunChat in conjunction with Run Laughlin). I thoroughly enjoyed the experience and I highly recommend it to others. Make sure you do a lot of hill training, it will be necessary to do well in this race. Also prepare for wind. The wind buffeted us a little during this race although we did have the wind to our back at the end. The Colorado River portion of the race is beautiful as well. Very scenic, very fun, very challenging. Very well done, especially for the first year of having this unique race. Loved it!