This was the first year this race was rebranded as SHE RUNS GRAND RAPIDS, after previously being the Gazelle Girl Half Marathon. I really enjoyed this race. This was my first postpartum race, so it was very special!

Pre-Race: Race expo was at Gazelle sports, nothing too special, but quick and efficient. Plenty of parking close by the start/finish. Pre-race there is A LOT of space to warm up and stretch, and plenty of porta potties (always important!). The field was a really good size -- big enough that there was a lot of excitement and positive energy in the corrals, without feeling packed/overly crowded.

Race: Plenty of pacers, course was pretty - a little bit of "city" running, but a majority of the race was on bike paths through parks, which was peaceful. Plenty of aid stations with enthusiastic volunteers. I loved crossing the bridge, and turning to the finish line. The course was a little bit short for the half marathon, per my garmin, and other runners said strava said it was also short.

Post-race/swag: Loved my medal and shirt. We got a drink ticket to choose a beverage of choice. Felt like a post-race party! Overall enjoyed this race experience, I just wish the course distance was accurate so I could have an official postpartum half marathon time!