A great race to celebrate America and veterans over Memorial Day. Running into Soldier Field and getting a medal from a member of the US armed forces is the best part!

PROS
- Packet pickup was relatively straightforward and several options were given based on timing and location at different Fleet Feet stores.
- The corrals weren't overcrowded and were fairly organized. I felt like I was running a similar pace as most people in my corral.
- The course itself is relatively flat and there were aid stations at every 2 miles approximately.
- Bag check was very organized and the whole race set up was well spread out - it didn't take too long to get anywhere.
- The coolest part is getting your medal at the end from a member of the armed forces - how awesome is this!!! It was a great reminder that although I had just worked my butt off running 10 miles, it pales in comparison to what these people do. How humbling.

CONS
- Running into Solider Field was awesome, however, the setup for the Beyonce concertn definitely took away from it a bit. Also, once we finished, lingering around was highly discouraged! It would have been nice to be able to take in the sites and get a few pictures but a.) there were barely any photographers and b.) security was hustling people through. This was a bit disappointing
- For $90, I wish there was a bit more swag then just a t-shirt and medal. Maybe offer some samples or coupons at packet pick up at least?
- At the aid station around mile 6.5, they were playing the slowest. music. ever. Like downright depressing. I was a bit confused why they would play it, but after about 30 seconds someone realized it and changed the song to something more upbeat.