Billed as the toughest 10K in the Midwest, the Rockdale Ramblin Run is the first race in the annual Joliet "Run3" series (which also includes The Sundowner 5K in July and a new one mile race in October.) I had never run this race before and was just delighted with the race management, the course, the after party and the swag. A truly great event.

This race started on a residential street in the Rockdale area of Joliet. Although early packet pickup was offered, it was a bit far away so I chose to pickup race morning. No problem. I drove right up to the small park where packet pickup was being held and parked on the street --- no charge. It took me all of five minutes to pick up my packet from some very friendly, helpful volunteers. There were plenty of port-a-potties set up and ton of policeman standing by to get on the course. When I got to the car, I pulled the race hoodie out of the bag and I was delighted. It is a nice dark heather grey with the race logo on the breast area and "The Toughest 10K in the Midwest" written down the sleeve.

The starting line was about two blocks away from where packet pickup was being held so I left my car where it was and just ambled down to the starting line. The gun went off, and off we went. What a fabulous course!!! Lots of hills, both up and own, beautiful residential neighborhoods to run through and volunteers and policemen everywhere to make sure we stayed on course and that traffic stayed out of our way. There was only one short section where I felt a bit exposed to traffic but I suspect that will be covered better next time. It was such fun doing the hills! Most midwest races are so flat it was nice to have a bit of a challenge.

After the race, the post race party was also exceedingly well run. Unlimited Miller Lite in cans and Leinenkugel's Summer Shandy, as well as water, bagels and bananas. The Joliet Park district after parties are always good. The awards started quickly (we didn't have to wait forever) and then there was a post race raffle. In addition, there were a few interesting vendors scattered around.

I loved this race. I will be back and I will wear my Rockdale Ramblin Run hoodie proudly!