Latest reviews by Linda

(2014)
"Fun Half, Well Supported!"
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This was my fourth Half, first Fox Valley Race. It was so much fun! Lots of emails inviting us to course previews, race info, expo info etc. This is an organized Race! The expos was fun, alittle crowded.
Convenient packet pick up for those in Chicago the week before the race. The course is truly beautiful with a few small hills. A very nice finish area and lots of cheering crowds. Staff were very friendly and helpful. Would definitely recommend and will run it again. (additional medals for those that run 2+ years)

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(2014)
"Super Fun race through Geneva, IL neighborhoods"
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I have run this 5k several years now. It is a super fun race midsummer to test your ability to tolerate the heat! Starts and ends at the Geneva HS Football Field, finishing in the stadium is fun :) It's definitely a family affair with races and distances for ALL ages. The T shirts are a different tie dye color each year. It's midweek, late in the day...just a nice change from the usual 5k. Well supported and organized.

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(2014)
"Inexperience and Overwhelmed"
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I think 2015 will be a true test of this race. In Feb. of 2014 I think... but not sure... that the race was better attended than expected. the 5k and 10k racers finish of course way ahead of the Half folks and managed along with their friends and family to drink most of the beer and eat most of the food. The Half finishers towards the end * ran out of gu and water at some aid stations * did not get the promised free beer and food * did not get medals on race day... they ran out. We heard that some were being handed out to 5k and 10 k people randomly and that some were even walking up and grabbing them out of a box. I hope this can all be written off to being overwhelmed and that changes are coming for 2015. There are such easy fixes!! This was a big Mom/Daughter weekend and we were disappointed that there just wasnt much "party" for us at the end. You unfortunately cant use the honor system with food and beer. It should be for those of us that paid money ( and we travelled a long way!) and not just for locals that show up to party. I also think the prettiest part of the course is upfront ( Phillipe Park)...and also the shadiest when it was getting hot... would be nice if that was towards the end. That was minor.

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(2013)
"Brrrr"
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Fun local race. It's almost always super cold but that makes it interesting! The Hoodies are different each year based on who is hosting the SuperBowl. It can be snowy, icy so be ready with your Yak Trax or Ice Spikez! Very fun way to start SuperBowl Sunday!

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(2013)
"Just Enjoy the View"
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This was my first Half... and it's a good first Half Race to do because there is NO time pressure. No PRs, just lots of photo opps. With 28,000 other runners ( and some walkers) you just cant be in a hurry :) It is so much fun to run through the Magic Kingdom and Epcot, and there if a fair amount of entertainment along the course. The negatives are definitely the crowds and more specifically the wave start. You have to be there SO early! I think we got on our Bus at 3am for what turned out to be a 6am start. ugh. Staying on property is key at this race I think... so you can hop on a bus and not worry about driving and parking. The pasta party at Epcot is no big deal, save your money. The Race Retreat is well worth the extra money so that you have access to food beforehand, comfort afterwards. I think this is a One and Done kind of race. Unless you are a total Disney Freak... then you have races all year put on by Run Disney to pick from, just start saving your pennies now. The Expo is by far the best I have been to... I met Frank Shorter, Jim Ryun, and Joan Benoit Samuelson and heard them speak. Worth the price of the whole weekend! Super Touristy weekend but would do it once.

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