-
Chicago,
Illinois,
United States - December
- 3 miles/5K
- Road Race
- Event Website
Cass
Chicago, Illinois, United StatesOverall
T-Shirts/SWAG
Aid Stations
Course Scenery
Expo Quality
Elevation Difficulty
Parking/Access
Race Management
I love themed races around the holidays. By the time that the Turkey Trots roll around in late November, I'm a little burnt out from training all summer and spring and racing in the fall and I'm ready to get back to taking it casual again - and races like the Santa Hustle are perfect for just that.
Themed runs like this are good to invite your non-runner friends to that want to try it out (and slowly but surely get them to join the running cult... I mean, community). It's a casual event and race atmosphere but still enjoyable even if you're a more serious runner.
Pros:
+ Virtual goodie bag (pro in my book anyways)
+ Super quick and easy packet pickup
+ Management was active and responsive. I felt very informed pre-race.
+ Great swag! Loved the quarter zip, it was honestly way better quality than I thought it would be. And who doesn't love getting a beard and santa cap to run in?
+ Fun theme - candy canes, holiday music, can't beat that kind of atmosphere!
+ Proceeds from the race go to charity!
Cons:
- Wish there was a half marathon option for Chicago! Maybe in the future!
- Swag was unisex (which I liked but I can see people not liking that as much)