Over the years I have run many Fleet Feet races and always enjoy them, and this one didn't disappoint. This event is an awesome way to empower women to get out there and run. It began years ago as a 5k/10K and due to it's popularity it has grown into a 13.1 option.
What I like most about the race this year, is that Fleet Feet made it a weekend long event. There was an amazing shakeout run and yoga session the day before the race. This year they brought in pro-athlete Lauren Fleshman and coach Jenny Hadfield. Both, joined the ladies for a shakeout run and mixed and mingled with everyone at the expo throughout the day. They were a true representation of what the event was about, bringing women together to empower and encourage them on their fitness journey. After the run, there was a yoga session offered as well.
The race course was changed at the last minute, but ended up being a course I enjoyed. The first half of the race ran down Michigan Ave, and then down the south end of the lakefront path. It was very warm on race day, but there was plenty of hydration offered. The aid stations were about every 1.5 miles and very well stocked (with both hydration and amazing volunteers). As you crossed the finish line there were cold towels and another awesome round of volunteers catering to every runners need. I really liked how the post race party area was spread out, and set up in a way runners could relax or easily meet up with friends & family. I was able to meet up with the other runners from my run club, immediately following the race.
Even though I really enjoyed race day (and weekend) there were a couple snags.
-Having the race on a holiday weekend, would be a bit better if it would have been on Saturday vs.Sunday.
-Changes to the race course were a bit confusing, considering it was advertised as a race through the downtown area. The final course wasn't released until the last minute and this made it hard for spectators to plan a meeting location.
-The start corrals were way too small. Runners couldn't fit into the assigned corrals as they were all jam packed.
I really did enjoy this race and would definitely recommend it, especially for the ladies.