This was the first year that I have ran the LifeTime Torchlight 5K. I was excited to get back to running along the river in Minneapolis and experience what it was like to run a race at night.

While there wasn't an actual expo. Packet pick-ups were at multiple LifeTime Fitness locations around the metro. Which really is a great way to do it, and gives runners an opportunity to pick-up their bibs closer to home. Race day pick also available.

Parking was available in the nearby ramps from the Minneapolis Convention Center. While the traffic was a bit backed up as a few roads were closed due to the race. It was within a block from start line and only cost $10. Very cheap for downtown Mpls.

The type of swag that you receive it pretty typical. What made it stand out though is the glow in the dark features on both the shirt and medal! And as you cross the finish line, you are gifted a finisher bag with a few goddies in it from sponsors etc. Near the end of the night as we were enjoying a few beers and the band. There was a gentleman walking around giving out pint glasses. Which was a nice surprise!!

This year the course was changed a little because of construction. And because it was my first year running it. I do not have a comparison to other years. But I enjoyed this course. Its fairly flat. It started at the Minneapolis Convention Center and ended at Boom Island Park. We worked our way through downtown, and then along the river. Not the most scenic, but at along the river are some very nice views. The course follows the Aquatennial Parade route. So it is packed with spectators!

Now my favorite part was the post race party!! Who doesn't love pizza and beer after a hot race? There were a few great spots to take pics. And the band was fantastic. We had alot fun visiting the vendor booths, enjoying the ice cold beer (multiple non-alcoholic options available) and dancing to the music!! This was more then just a regular post race area. It was quite the party in the park!!

Starting shortly after the race ended they started providing free shuttles back to the start line. Because we had stayed until the end of the night. We took the last round of the shuttles running. A bit of confusion as to what time shuttles ran until. Website listed 11pm. Security guards were stating 10pm. As we waited in line we were concerned we had missed the final shuttles. But thankfully we had not. So with a bit of a minor miscommunication, the shuttles were pretty great to have for runners post-race.

I think this race is fantastic!! Running at night, in a great part of Minneapolis, awesome post-race party and the entire race is ran very well! I can't wait for 2020! Easily the best 5K in town!