The Women's Series Scottsdale race was my first half and it did not disappoint! I had spectators with me, so we were able to park and walk about 3 minutes to the start line which was in Old Town Scottsdale. Alternatively, the race provided shuttles for those that wanted to park near the finish at Sun Devil Stadium. The start line was near the Civic Center Park and it was a nice open area to stretch and relax and there were plenty of port o potties, I think I only had to wait maybe 10 minutes max. The corrals were easy to get to and the pacer signs were very well marked. It was a nice medium sized race and drew a lot of crowd support which is very motivating!

The race was great because there were a lot of different terrains and scenery. We ran on streets, sidewalks, and running paths, and navigated though the streets of old town, Papago, behind the zoo, before finishing at Tempe Beach Park. The last two miles were probably the toughest as it is an out and back over the bridge in Tempe, and you run along side the people that are on their way to the finish line. There were adequate aid and water stations, but I think they could have used one more water stop towards the end of the race.

It was easy to navigate out of the finish area to find my party. The after race festivities were fun, they had a little primping area and free champagne! The medals were huge and had a cute removable charm that for $10 they would take off for you and put on a silver necklace. I thought that was a great touch.

All in all, this was a super fun and not intimidating race, the perfect one for first time women half marathoners and seasoned half marathoners as well!! I recommend it to lots of runners!