This was the second half marathon I ever did. It was a fantastic course as it's almost all down hill. It's a point to point race which is great - I don't like to back track during a race. I signed up for this one because it was close to home. I ran it by myself. The expo before the race was a decent size. There were probably 15-20 vendors set up with a good selection of merchandise. The race packet didn't include much - a tech shirt and a couple of Gu's. The tech shirt was white and the design wasn't bad, but only mens sizes, so it didn't fit me very well. If I had known I would've sized up and given it to my husband to wear.

There is no parking at the start line for the half at this race. There was plenty of parking available with shuttle buses though. I got there early and was on the first bus out and when we arrived to the start area, nothing had been set up. The bus simply stopped where there was a row of porta johns. After a dozen more buses showed up, we were asked to get off our bus as it was to be used as a drop bus for drop bags. It was a rare morning where it was actually cold and misty out in Tucson, so none of us were too thrilled about getting off the bus. It was another 1/2 hour before the race personnel showed up to set up the start line, and start up the music. By the time we started, we were all ready to get moving! This was really the only part of the race that was disappointing, and hopefully they learned from it and improved it.

The course itself was great. It was all down hill except for one short uphill. The small hill wasn't bad though as there were cheerleaders (men and ladies) lined up the hill cheering you up it. The aid stations were fantastic. All were well manned and had plenty of water and gatorade and also Clif Shot blocks and gels. The scenery wasn't bad, but nothing terribly exciting for anyone that lives in Tucson. The finish was great. The finisher medal was very nicely done and is probably my favorite so far. There was lots of food at the finish - chocolate milk, cookies, fruit, pb&j sandwiches, water and emergen-C packets. Lots of photographers throughout the course and at the finish.

Overall it's a great race and I would definitely do it again. Thinking of doing the full this year as it is a downhill course.