Packet pickup the day before the race was at Fleet Feet Old town, and besides not having the best times (11AM-3PM on a Wednesday) was very quick and easy. The Tie-Dye tech shirt was pretty nice and a unique piece of race sway, although the bonus tie-dye tech hats were a little less wearable. Overall though good quality gear.

The race it self was a lot of fun. It went through part of Grant Park and the staff and volunteers did a surprisingly good job keeping it clear of traffic and bystanders. I was concerned about the route before the race started, but it was clear and easy to follow once things got going. Nice and flat and well supported the whole way.

The post race party was where its at. They had a band called Old Shoe? playing afterwards that was spot on for the mood of the race. They also had Lou Malnati's pizza, I repeat they hat Lou's pizza at the finish. Hard to go wrong there. We stayed for a while after the race and enjoyed the music and some post race Magic Hat's. As things wound down many other non-racers/supporters came in and enjoyed the band. Also, for whatever reason people seemed to be in a giving mood as we got no less than 8 free beer tickets. Pretty sweet score.

Between the tie-dye, pizza, and live music this race delivered spot on what I was hoping for. Hopefully it will be back again...

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