EXPO: There was no expo but rather two opportunities for packet pickup to the race the week prior. Because it's a smaller race, if there was an option for morning of packet pickup (perhaps for a nominal fee), it would be appreciated.

The hills are no joke during this race but if you're looking for a challenging half course, you should absolutely add this to your bucket list. Originally I was registered for the half marathon but after chatting with a friend we decided to switch to the relay (there was a $30 fee to do so).

The course elevation was challenging, especially coming from the flatter lands of New Jersey. It wasn't a surprise, I'd done my homework on the course and I knew when to expect the hills. That didn't make it any less brutal!

Thankfully there was terrific support out on the course. The aid stations are in on the competition fun and each one had a different sponsor, which I thought was great. It also helped keep the miles moving because there were smiling faces throughout the entire course. Nearly every single mile had a station.

Also wonderful was that all of the roads for this race were CLOSED. That really makes a difference and it was appreciated.

As a relay runner I was given a chip to wear on my ankle. After running 6.6 miles, I met up with my partner who transferred the ankle bracelet from my leg to hers in the exchange area. Our transfer took under a minute.

At the exchange I was given my medal. I do wish there was a slight differentiation between the medals or on the ribbons to signify half runners versus relay runners, I think that would have been cool! Maybe something to consider for year 5.

The post race festival was AMAZING. Hosted at The Creamery, which is where the start/finish was as well, it boasted a beer garden (and one free beer for runners), food trucks, an awesome band, and fun family events for those who brought theirs along.

My relay partner and I came in DFL (don't worry, we're not mad about it!) and we were awarded mushrooms and a gift card to a local restaurant, Sovana Bistro. After spending some time at the post race party we went there for an incredible lunch.

Many more words and pictures over on my blog: http://www.scootadoot.org/2019/11/08/race-recap-mushroom-cap-half-marathon-relay/

Link to this review