This was an enjoyable run made better by the mild weather we were having for the month of February. Easy road race with some minor elevations and twists and turns to accomplish the 5 mile distance within a small course footprint. I also enjoyed it because it was along an area that I use on my long runs so there was familiarity for me with the terrain and its dips and whatnot. It ran along a park so there was lots of trees and playgrounds as well the river nearby. There were two aid stations (the same table in the same spot, just the volunteers swapping sides during the race) which served water. The "expo" was the packet pickup at Performance Running Outfitters, which at least offers you the chance to purchase hydration boosts (like nuun products) or Buff wear, etc. The t-shirt provided was a long sleeve cotton blend shirt. Comfortable and I actually wore it for the race (something I typically do not do). Also in the goody bag were a lot of actual useful coupon and discounts for local businesses. I was impressed that I might actually use some of them, something that I cannot always say for other races. The post race party had a pretty nice layout. There was free beer (Lakefront's Riverwest Stein, a good brew), there was different bread to have from white to wheat to rye (I believe) to go along with your free bowl of chili (I passed on the chili since I ran from my house to the start line and was going to have to run back). They provided bottled water and bananas as well. And a live band was rocking out inside the building where all the food was located. There also was a silent auction for some various gift items (a beer package included coupons to local establishments for free food/beer and another that included a Coors Light golf bag with a PBR clock are just two examples) and you could take a pic with a cutout Brett Favre, for a $1.00 donation. (All money was going to the cause - healthy heart charity. Race is named after a former city councilman who was an active person but died suddenly from a undetected heart condition) Parking was easy and accessible for runners; park at a nearby lot and get shuttled to the start line. Simple.

Overall, I enjoyed the race and will keep it on my radar for next year. I like that it had a different distance than just your normal 5Ks that are ever present. And the post race party was nicely setup and wasn't expected. No medal, but I can deal with that.