This was my first time and it was an absolute blast! I LOVED the course and the scenery. Could be one of the most beautiful courses I have run.

The HILLS are better described as mountains. The uphills were not short and many. Instead, they were MILES long. It really was impossible to sustain any semblance of a steady pace...and the downhills were no picnic either. Be prepared to run a LOT of hills--I don't think there were 13 feet in a row that didn't have an incline/decline! If someone is going to PR on this course, they are an absolute BEAST.

This was a smaller race and the local stores were gracious enough to let everyone park right near the start/finish. Great! The post-race support/festivities were very well done. I usually don't stick around much following races, but today I hung out for a long time just enjoying the weather and the fun.

The race organizer was wonderful. She actually stood at the finish to give EVERYONE a hug as the crossed the finish line. Seriously?! FABULOUS woman.

The views are worth the climbs. Small town charm. Great local food and drink. I would recommend this race to anyone.