If you have ever wanted to try out a one mile race, this is the for you. It's not about the scenery or the swag, but about challenging yourself to go as fast as possible in a simple but fun environment.

The guys behind the Sir Walter Miler organize this race and have moved the location over the last few years. This year the course followed Centennial Parkway near the State Farmer's Market. The road is wide so you won't feel crowded and drops almost continually for over 100 feet. Gravity pulls you along, especially through the last third, and the fact it is a point-to-point keeps you from having to worry about coming back or seeing how much of the course you have left. It's easy to get into a flow and feel good about your effort.

They have "competitive" and "recreational" fields for people to sort into at registration. The competitive fields are gender specific and fast, but the race is new and not very large. If it continues to grow I imagine the average times will go up. The recreational field gets a gun time but not a chip time. Since the race is so short, it really doesn't matter which you choose.

The swag consisted of a nice "Buff-style" neck gaiter. If you want to add a shirt, they have a basic one you could buy at registration for $5.

The race was well-run by guys who love running and especially the mile. They want you to have a good time and see what you can do, and have worked to make sure there is value in such a short event. My wife went and watched, but being there made her wonder what she could do next year.

For my longer reflection on the race, feel free to read here:

http://wp.me/p7xxYm-1Q