I started running in 2013 and have run about a dozen half marathons and this has to be one of my favorites. I am not interested in the huge crowds that the Chicago races draw nor running on the lakefront path dodging bicycles. Mad to the Bone is run on a combination of residential streets and on the Fox River trail - parking is free, easy and close, packet pickup is same day, there is ever changing scenery, plenty of room to pass if a bike/runner or car is in the way, local spectators and a manageable number of runners.

The aid stations were a little far apart given the heat of August but they were a blast to run through. One was a group of young people having a pool party another a group of cowboys & girls. Just fun. Additionally, at one point, there was full cooler of baggies filled with ice. That was amazing.

The post race party was a blast with music, pizza, beer and soda. I now consider this a must do race.