My race reports can be read at:
http://www.591miles.com/2014/09/freakn-yeah-freak-fifty.html and http://www.591miles.com/2014/09/peace-love-running.html

Run Woodstock doesn't have to be your typical race experience (expo, run, nom a banana and go home). If you choose, you can move in Friday - pitch a tent (or set up your camper) - and call it home for the entire weekend. With food trucks, showers, friends and beer available, there's really no reason to leave camp except for your run through the woods of beautiful, early fall Michigan.

If this is what an Ultramarathon feels like, count me in for more. I can totally see how this could become a lifestyle.

The Expo is non-existent. Super easy check-in at a shelter house to get your bib, t-shirt and weekend wristband and BAM, you're all set to go.

I know many people are apprehensive about running trails for fear of getting lost. The trails for Run Woodstock are extremely well marked, including retro-reflective tips on the trail flags and printed signs where different distances merge and separate. The trails aren't technical. There are some hills, but not as tough as you'd think (it's Michigan, after all).

The aid stations are plentiful and the volunteers amazing. Heck, you're likely to see runners lending a hand when they aren't racing - just the way it should be.

All of the entries get you access to Friday and Saturday nights untimed 5k and Sunday's 5-miler, as well as Hippy Yoga on Saturday afternoon and tons of other activities. They really do embrace the theme: Peace, Love and Running.

If you're eyeing your first trail race or Ultra, this is a great one. Within minutes of finishing our ultras, Hubs and I declared that we'll be back every year we possibly can. It's SO worth the 6 hour drive.