Another year, and another Run for the Zoo in the books. Last year, I ran the 10k and this year opted for the 5k, so I think I've had the full experience now. The race made a couple changes from last year, which I'll get to below (spoiler: they were good changes).

Because of course limitations and the size of the event, the 5k starts at 7:30 and the 10k gets going at 8:15. I'd still love to see the race add in a scored "15k" challenge and add the 5k and 10k times of runners who did the double.

The start times are also relevant for the parking situation. If you're coming for the 10k, get there EARLY. If you're coming for the 5k...still get there early. I arrived just after 6:30, and the zoo lots were almost full. There was a decent amount of street parking a short walk from the zoo, but that was filling up while I parked. If you give yourself time, you'll be fine, but make sure you give a solid 30-45 minutes before the race to ensure parking.

Packet pick-up is available the Friday and Saturday before the race, and on race morning. This year, I opted for race morning pick-up, and after seeing the lines last year I was a little concerned about how long it might take. BUT the race made some clutch adjustments. First, packet pickup is now located inside the zoo (it used to be outside) which made it was easier to find. Second, the race used dynamic bib assignment this year, which made it a significantly faster process.

There is a bag check for runners (also moved inside the zoo this year), and it's still one of the most efficient bag checks I've ever done. Allegedly the bathrooms inside the zoo were open as well, but I couldn't find them; which is probably more a personal problem than anything. There are porta pods just in back of the start line, and had almost no line, which was amazing.

The start area is pretty straightforward. "Corrals" such that they are, are broken down into pace; and the race also operates on a wave start.

The course heads south past the zoo, hops onto some of the dirt/gravel trails by the lake, and heads north. If you need it, there is an aid station right around the halfway point of the race. The last mile is mostly through the zoo and over the zoo boardwalk. Note, the boardwalk has lots of sharp turns (if you've played the boardwalk level on Mario Kart 64, it's like that) and is slippery when wet. But I love running on boardwalks, so this is a great end to the race.

The finish chute is very straightforward. Water, gatorade, freeze pops, and some fruit. And if you're above 21, you can grab your post race Goose Island beer as well.

Oh, and the race shirt. Personally, I liked last year's shirt better. But it's a tech shirt, and very comfy. It was blue with the race logo and a rhino on it this time around.

All in all, it was a perfect morning for the race, and excellent race management as well. Definitely recommend if you're looking for a solid early summer race. Or if you just want to get some exercise at the zoo