This is my second year running Lola's Half Marathon. This year was quite different from last year, in a few respects. The race itself didn't change, but the weather this year was dreadful, making a lasting impression in my mind as a "bad run". But that shouldn't deter anyone from running the event in 2018.

There was better organization this year as compared to last. The announcer, God love him, got all the starting information correct, so there was little to no confusion on where everyone was supposed to be and when. The set up inside the park seemed better organized, but the location change of the porta potties made it difficult to maneuver amongst the vendors inside the park. Not to mention the serious LACK of porta potties! My husband and I arrived at 7am for a 7:30am start, and I waited on line for 25 minutes before having to vacate my place in line to get to the start. That wasn't good. I saw some 10 milers and half marathoners asking the 5k and 10K runners if they could go ahead since they were starting earlier. Most were congenial to let them by.

I was waiting in line at the park restroom while my husband held me a place in the porta potty line. Neither made it in the 25 minute wait, and I was told that the park restroom had run out of toilet paper to boot. I had to run this event with an un-emptied bladder.

BUT, despite that snafu, the race was well run. It is not an easy course and I don't recommend it to anyone running their first half marathon. But if you appreciate a challenge, you'll appreciate Lola's.

Unfortunately, again this year, we couldn't stay for the after event. I was looking forward to that this year, but we had to rush off. Next year, however, I plan to attend...that is as long as they get more porta potties!

The shirts were a pretty shade of super dark blue (purple?) Hard to differentiate, but the women's cut was much more flattering than last year's shirt. I actually opted for the Men's shirt last year. This year, I stuck with the Women's. It is sized a little small, but most race apparel is these days.

Parking was a no brainer. There is much of it on the local residential streets, and the walk to the start is minimal.

Aid stations were available every 2-3 miles or so, with the exception of the footpath through the park and the main roadways. The fans were plentiful, and the volunteers and local authorities do a great job cheering on the runners as well!

The finish line is a fun place, with great crowd support and the awesome announcer. I didn't have a good run this year, so I didn't see what they offered at the finish as far as treats go, except for the bananas, peanut rolls, and water.

The medals are always beautiful...this years was no exception.

I will return to Lola's. I love a challenge. Hopefully next year will be a tad cooler, though. ;)