Pre-race / expo: The expo was held the Saturday before the race from 10am to 6pm. This was your only chance to pick up your packet. However you could have someone pick it up for you, they just had to sign a form saying they did so. There were scheduled events during the expo and a pasta party in the evening. With your registration (approx $45) you received a shirt, bandana, coozie, udder cream, a poster and lots of papers, pamphlets and flyers. (virtual race bags would have been nice, as my flyers hit the recycling bin)

There are approximately 5200 runners, with the 5k, half, full and relay; so there are no issues with parking. Just need to make sure you have enough time to maneuver through the area as the main streets are closed for the race. Lots of parking in the lot adjacent to the start. Plenty of port-a-potties.

Race: All races started at 7:30, in the same undivided coral. It was also the finishing shoot, which was set up with tents on either side, it was a bit of a bottleneck. You can line up with a pacer. The race is chip timed so not a huge problem with timing, just a problem with too many people in one spot.

The course covers 2 states and 4 cities. It starts in Moline, IL. The race is mostly run along side the Mississippi river on paved surface. The course also takes you through Arsenal island.

The bridge crossings are about this biggest elevation changes. All miles are marked with a balloon tied to each marker. There are many aid stops with water & Gatorade. A lube stop, many GU stops, a wet cloth stop a candy stop & 2 fruit stops. Plenty of port-o-potties. The course has lots of entertainment bands, D.J.'s, cheer squads. There is also many spectators.

Finish/ Post Race: After medals were placed around your neck and timing chips clipped from your shoe, there was a plethora of food & drink; chocolate milk, bottle of water, grapes, cookie, bagels, chips, hot dogs, granola bars, snack crackers, and beer!!!!!

I would recommend this course to a first timer, it is relatively flat. There are hills, but they are manageable. There are also plenty of spectators and entertainment on the course.