The MDRA Mississippi 10-Miler is a local race that is sponsored and put on by the MDRA (Minnesota Distance Running Association). The mission of MDRA is "To promote participation and safety in running and to serve as an information resource." One of the most visible ways MDRA carries out this mission is by providing a variety of training programs led by certified and experienced coaches.

One can become a member of the MDRA by joining and paying an annual fee of which there are different sponsorship levels. Every member gets three free MDRA races included in their membership. Sustaining members get quite a few more. Since I am a sustaining member, this particular race was a freebie for me.

The races are very minimalistic. The MDRA provide water stops and a few snacks after the runs, and tee-shirts are typically available for purchase only. Therefore the races aren't expensive. There are no medals at MDRA races, but there are awards for age group winners. The MDRA is associated with several other larger runs that take place across the Twin Cities and those races do have the additional swag of medals and tee shirts. MDRA members usually get a $5 discount for these races, and a few of these are also free for sustaining members.

This particular race just so happened to take place on my 50th birthday this year, so I felt an urge to get up early and run it. I also asked if I could have a table at the race with my running charms, and the MDRA gladly allowed me to do so. I had my husband take care of the charms while I got out there and did the 10 miles!

The run took place along the shores of the Mississippi river in spots, and then through Crosby Regional Park, and on a few local roads as well. It was particularly scenic though the woods and also along the river. Because it was in the park, it was shady, too. It was a rather flat run for Minnesota, although some may argue differently. For me, the gentle hills didn't pose any particular issues.

There was plenty of parking at the park, assuming you arrived early enough to park there. We did, since we would be setting up the table for Charmed Running. As I mentioned before, tee-shirts were available for $10 at the start and finish of the race. Bib pickup that morning was very well organized. In fact, you could register and pay right on site, without filling out any paperwork. There were just short of 200 runners, and everything went off without a hitch.

The course was well marked and there were plenty of volunteers to help along the way. No spectators to speak of, as much of the run was in the wooded areas. But there were family members of the runners scattered along the course, and the volunteers helped with the cheering and fanfare. There were water/aid stations near miles 2 and 4, then since it was an out and back, you passed them a second time.

Since these races are small, and are run by some of the fastest Minnesota runners, they go fast. There aren't many stragglers at these runs. Before you know it, you're packing up and heading out just a few hours after the gun. But everyone is super friendly in the group. The MDRA does a great job in putting on these races. Kudos to them!

I recommend any of the races to local Minnesotans. And I also recommend becoming a member. They have several meetups throughout the year, and publish a great magazine a few times a season featuring the members, the races, and the training programs that they offer. It is definately worth the $25 for a general membership since you make up that cost in the three free races and the discounts throughout the year.

Find my complete race recap here! http://www.neonismycolor.com/mdra-miss-10/