The 2017 event was held Thanksgiving day, November 23 at 8 am. It was sunny and temps were warmer around 40-50 degrees.

*I ran this race the last 4-5 years (I didn't write a review last year, it's basically the same review) However, I would like to note that unlike the past 2 years it had been dry leading up to this event, so the trails were not muddy.

This race is approximately 4 miles on trail, in Hickory Hill park. The actual distance is never advertised, but always draws many participants.

Registration: Online registration was near $25 and included a long sleeve cotton, unisex shirt, timing chip and bib. There was also race day registration. However they moved the location to the hallway area, and it caused some congestion, as I would guess the nice weather had many last minute registrants.

Pre Race / Packet Pick up: Parking was available at Regina high school, but first come, first serve. Race day pickup without a shirt was $25. Packet pick up was in the mess with the registration line. Bathrooms available in the school.

*The packet pick up and registration lines died down and there was no cause for late arrival to the starting line.

Race & Course: Race starts on the track at Regina High School. Announcements were shouted to the starting line, including encouragement to hug a fellow runner. After that, the race was off, a 300 yard trip around the track, and off into the Hickory Hill Park woods.

-Terrain: Trail - uneven, roots, leaves, rocks, through a field - optional creek crossing
-Aid Stations: There are no aid stations
-Course Markings: no mile markers, just follow the yellow flags through the woods. Signage for the short cut
-Scenery: these are woods in a city, slight chance you would see some wildlife, otherwise you see trees
-Elevation: While this race is not in the mountains, there are some hills, and tough ups and downs
-Photographers: no photographers
-Volunteers: No one on course
-Spectators: a few near the start and finish area

Finish: was back on the track, after another partial loop, was marked with a clock and blue timing mat. The entrance to the track was crowded as spectators were in the way. It was also the area to cross to head back indoors for post race refreshments. Timing chips were removed at the finish line. Paper results were posted on the track shed as quickly as they were updated.

Post Race: Lots of baked goods available in the cafeteria; bars, cookies, breads, etc. Water was available from a cooler. The age group winners were awarded pie.

Overall: I always try to run this race, I love that it's not the mellow "Trot" and it's a more difficult trail race. I always appreciate that families participate like it is the mellow turkey trot. If you are around Iowa City next Thanksgiving, add this your schedule.