September 6, at 8:15 am, It was a sunny start, great temps! The kids runs are before the 5 miler and the 5k starts after the 5 miler. (Always the Monday of Labor Day Weekend.)

I've run this event many times, the review is usually the same.

Registration: Available online and on race day. Included was a long sleeve, technical shirt. There was a timing chip on the back of the bib.

Expo / Packet Pick up: There was no expo, but packets could be picked up at the fitness center the Saturday before, however no pick up the Sunday before the race. Could also pick up your packet on race morning. Someone else could pick up your packet.

Pre-Race: There was free parking at the nearby Middle School, on street or at the park where the race started. There were port-o-potties, back behind the set up area. There is also a toilet at the rec area by the middle school.

At 8 am there were some announcements. The National Anthem was sung, and the participants were walked to the starting line.

Race / Course: the course was through the residential parts of the city, including a bike path
-Terrain: all paved, some cracks in spots to watch out for
-Aid Stations: water only stops, all in paper cups. I believe there were 3 or more, plenty for 5 miles.
-Course Markings: Each mile was marked, there are some permanent markers on the bike path. The course was on roads open to traffic, the running lane was partitioned off with cones, always running against traffic (The last stretch is moved to a wide sidewalk)
-Volunteers: they were all over the place, law enforcement at all intersections, and along the route
-Elevation: some hills, but nothing too steep, but I always forget about them, making them a challenge
-Spectators: people sitting in their driveways in the residential areas
-Photographers: no photographers on course that I can remember.
Scenery: nothing great to see, unless you like a small creek and houses

Post Race: Finish was marked, with a timing mat, clock and an announcer trying to get as many names announced as possible. There were apples, bananas, popcorn, snow cones, bottled water. (probably something I am forgetting.) Room to cheer on finishers too. No finisher medals. Awards ceremony for overall and age group winners.

Overall: This is a great race at a great price. Always professionally organized. A labor day tradition.

My race: I just wanted to finish. It was my first race after having Covid, I like the event, so I was just happy to be there. I actually surprised myself and averaged a 10:04 pace, race day is just always something else. I felt good when I was done!

Overall: I will continue to run this race as long as it works with my schedule. A great organization to continue to support and well organized.

*This race has a great history. Over 20 years ago, Carl Schilling, at age 15, lost his life in an car-pedestrian accident. He was a cross country runner. The race went on in his name to raise money for scholarships for area schools. A few years back the family put on the last race, however with help from a title sponsor the race goes on today.