This was only my second trail race, and my first with the Nashville Striders. Because I am new to trails (and not adjusted to humidity), I was at the back of the pack.
Nearly everyone who passed me after they had turned back on the out-and-back trail gave me a "good job" or "nice work."

I gained confidence in trail running after running this varied course. It starts with a short out-and-back on a park road before heading into the 4 miles out/4 miles back main trail. There are segments with roots and rocks, and it is a relatively flat course for trying out that terrain if you are a newbie like me. There are lake views at the start of the trail, but for most of the run, it's in the woods with a couple areas that have clearings. It was mostly shady, so although there was high humidity, the sun wasn't bearing down too. Because I wasn't in a competitive pack, I had some nice long periods where I was alone.

The awards started after everyone had finished, which is definitely not the norm. Finishers could enjoy the cookout while waiting, but if they were annoyed to stick around for the last finishers, they never showed it. Everyone was cheered across the finish.

I'm used to large road races, so this was a nice simple race that didn't take an entire day. Parking was near the start, and walk-up registration was available. No expo, so I didn't rate that one. Free amateur photography available within hours. Water at mile 1, and water, Gatorade, and GU at mile 4 turnaround. Volunteers everywhere you needed them.

As another reviewer said, it's possible to place in your age group because of the size of the field. I placed second in my age group for females. Out of 2...

Overall, loved this quick, efficient, friendly race through beautiful but humid woods. Next year could have totally different weather. Just go for it.

Bonus: actual toilets at park visitor center!