I was going to be back in town for the Thanksgiving holiday and decided I would run a half marathon on Thanksgiving as part of my training for my January marathon. I chose this option based on running races in the past put on by North GA Running Co. The race is low key with decent swag.Runners of all distances receive a hooded long sleeve tech tee and a medal.

Expo - There is no expo, but packet pickup was available at North GA Running Co for several days leading up to the race as well as race morning.

Pre Race – There were several parking options all within a half mile of the start. The pre race instructions gave clear directions to one of several nearby parking lots once the lot at the start filled up. There were about a dozen porta potties available, which was enough given the small field. The half marathon started at 730 and the other races started at 8

Race Course
The race course was an out and back with a loop at the end. The first 4 miles running down Peachtree Parkway were flat to downhill. At mile 4, the course turned onto Mathis Airport Parkway where the steepest portion of the course was. There was a good climb to the turnaround at 5.6 miles and again at around 6.4. Just after mile 7, the course turned back onto Peachtree Parkway and headed back towards the start. This section from miles 7 to 11 were mostly false flats to slow climbs around 1 – 2 %. Miles 11 to the finish were an out and back loop around the school that had one small hill that you ended up running up twice.
On the course there were water stations around every 2 miles. As far as I know, they only had water, no sports drinks or gels, but I’m not 100% certain as I carry my own Nuun and Gels in my Orange Mud hydraquiver

Finish – There was a photographer taking photos as you approached the finish. Once you crossed the finish, you had to walk over to a tent to get your medal and there was a table with granola bars, bananas, and water. I didn’t stick around for the awards, so I couldn’t comment on that.

Overall – This is a low key no frills race, but I would certainly do it again. I shocked myself that I not only ended up with a shiny new PR, but I ended up placing 3rd in my AG, which I picked up the next day at the running store. If you’re looking for a flashy race with big crowds, this isn’t your race. If your looking for a low cost, high quality race with decent swag, this is it. The race shirt is comfortable and not too heavy. I will certainly be wearing it when it cools down here in Florida.