As part of the Canadian Running Series, the Race Roster Spring Run-Off is a great run to warm you up for the heart of race season. The course and post-race festivities are all contained in High Park. Day of race packet pickup made the trip a breeze.

One of the unique aspects of this race was that besides timing you for the 5 or 8k, you are also timed for the final 365 meters, which is up a rather tough hill in the park. Separate prizes are given out for the best in that department in addition to those of the overall race.

Other Pros: A pay up option for a pancake breakfast after the race. If you were traveling from out of town like myself and wanted to explore other food options, you could pocket the cash instead of getting enhanced finish line foods. I will say the pancakes looked good. The finisher medal was gorgeous to boot! Of course, being in a popular park means it was easy to get in, although I remember turning the wrong way once in the park and ended up getting a loop in before the start by accident.

Other Cons: Another smaller race, which means no expo. Not really a big deal as they did have a vendor or two on site at the start/finish. Honestly, not much to complain about on this one!