The weather forecast had said "flurries" starting at 10 am, so when I woke up to two inches on the ground and snow continuing to come down rapidly at 6 am, I was less than impressed. But this is what we runners do, right?! Onward! True to form, the snow didn't keep many of my club members away, although it did cause us to break out our winter clothes once again... hats, gloves, jackets, and even ski goggles to ward off the blowing snow.

Almost immediately, I stepped in a huge puddle and my feet were soaked in icy water. Also, although I felt fine when I woke up, my legs felt heavy and tired almost immediately after starting to run - testament to the previous day's hills. It was the race volunteers that kept me going - over 75 volunteers out on the course, manning water stations, giving splits at mile markers, taking photos and just cheering us on, while they themselves were covered in snow. The support was pretty incredible, and it kept me motivated. As I sprinted across the finish line with snow and hail blowing in my eyes, I felt unstoppable.

In terms of the race logistics - the swag was awesome. We received a bag with several freebies and coupons, as well as a neon orange tech shirt, which I loved and will put to good use. The race also had 40+ raffle items which runners were entered in for free. I won a pound of Starbucks coffee and a travel mug! The age group and overall awards were also pretty awesome - gardening shovels with the race name and date, hung on ribbons. Super creative!

Parking was right across the street and the race director let us stay in the school's gym until just before the race, which made the snowy conditions totally bearable. Race support was AWESOME and I was grateful for the bananas, hot coffee and bagels in the gym after the race as well.

A great local race that I will definitely do again!