Plenty of positives:
- plenty of parking close to the start/finish
- flat course (biggest incline was with 1/2 mile to go)
- great community support
- huge medal -- big, heavy medal
- fun after-race party
- volunteers are very supportive
- 5+ waves at start
- price is very reasonable
- timely, efficient communication before, during, after race

Negatives:
- hmmm, I'm not sure I have any

This isn't even the most prominent distance race in Columbus, but you'd never know it. For a half marathon (as longest distance), this race is the best overall option. If you haven't run it, I highly recommend.

Overall, just a very good race experience. Every aspect is done with quality and excellence in mind, and I especially appreciated all the details that recognize our Air Force and its members. The half marathon course is tough, with its changing elevations, and there aren't nearly the number of spectators because most of the course is on or around the base. Plus, with an 8:30 start and little shade, you're more "exposed" to the sun than at a lot of races. But, don't concern yourself with your time and soak in the entire experience. This race is a must-run.

Medal quality is By far the cheapest of any race I've been to and the t-shirt is so-so. There are no medals for placing overall or age group and there are no other giveaways. Food also doesn't match up to other races. I would compare it to a local 5k race rather than the typical full, half, or even quarter marathons available.

Positives:
Medal is huge
Nice shirt
Great, scenic course (you go through the "Shoe")
Plenty of parking
Spectator shuttle to "Shoe" to see runners on course
Great community support
Negatives:
Crowded, congested, confusing gear check
Limited spectator views of start or finish
Smoking permitted at start/finish
Corral setup is very congested and difficult to get to/through
Congested finishing area and difficult to meet up with family/friends

Would I do this race again? Yes, absolutely. The overall experience was very good and they seem to have taken the feedback I've shared here (my experience is consistent with what others shared in post race survey) to heart. Plus, with an October date, you can also run a good September race as well.

From pre-race communication to expo to the course, the support, etc. Akron is top notch. Other races could use this one as a benchmark. To top it off, there is extremely strong community support which you feel every stride on the course. Highly recommend this race to anyone at any skill level, you will be extremely pleased with all aspects.