Overall: This was a very small and awesome race. I think if you are someone trying to get a new PR or running down a BQ your chances of doing this are pretty good here. I like the small races and it gives you a chance to mix and mingle with other runners. To me this is a more enjoyable experience.

T-Shirt/Swag: At packet pickup when we received our number we were also given a gender specific shirt. I received a white New Balance short sleeve shirt with the race logo on it. In our packet bag we also received a rubber wrist band stating what distance we were running, race logo and project wounded warrior logo as well since this race supported this. Also in the bag were a race logo magnet, plastic cup and also a limited edition wounded warrior project Reese’s cups. With our packet we were also given an orange paper wrist band that we were told was for entrance onto the track and once outside the track we could rip it off. Glad I didn't list to the volunteer who told us this, because this band was what we needed for the after race party. With this band we were given 3 free alcoholic drinks, a meal from a local food truck and a few other things.

Aid Stations: The aid stations were very small as well as the cups. The stations had the options of either water or Gatorade and were being handed out by some very nice volunteers. Hammer gel was being passed out at I believe 3 stations with some awesome flavors. The only downside was a few of the stations weren’t set up or closed and if you were doing the full you had a good amount of miles between stops. I carried my own fluid so this didn’t bother me, but I could see this being a problem for other runners.

Course Scenery: The beginning of the race was really neat because the first mile was a lap around the track and this was an awesome experience. I mean to say you raced on the Monster Mile is pretty neat. Once you were out of the speedway you ran on some beautiful streets and saw beautiful homes and buildings, but once the half and the full split the fullers saw a lot of fields and farms. If you take into consideration the small amount of people running the full and combat that with no crowd support I could see how it could be mentally difficult for a newbie or even veterans.

Expo: There was no real race expo at this event. There was a small New Balance area that had some clothing for sale as well as some other race related items, but not a large selection.

Elevation Difficulty: This course was very flat. Did get some headwinds for a few miles, but other than that a great flat fast course.

Parking/Access: Parking was an A++ at this race. With it being so small you literally parked right next to the start/finish line. I actually stayed at the Comfort Inn and walked to the start line as it was just a very short walk.

Race Management: Race Director, Kent Buckson, does an excellent job of putting on this race. When I went to pick up my packet Kent actually welcomed you, shook your hand and wanted to know a little bit more about you. He did an excellent job before and after the race of getting the crowd excited about the race.

MM#11726