This was my second time running the JFK runway run. I have to tell the word is getting out, the field probably doubled from last year. It's not easy to get to this race unless you are local, so make sure you will leave enough time for yourself to get out to JFK in time.

There is a bib pickup line, which was a bit slow this year... after receiving your number you need to be bused out to the runway. This year we were running very close to an active runway and you could see all airplanes taxiing to takeoff. We were also running under the landing path and you could see every minute a plane landing above your head. Be prepared that it is very COLD out on the runway. You should dress accordingly. The organizers let everyone finish the race, even the very slow walkers and kids. There were two water stations on the course - one at midpoint where the filed turns and one at the end of the race.

Highly recommend for every runner!

I loved this race! I believe this was the 2nd or 3rd annual DreamCatcher Half so it is still a relatively small race (less than 500 finishers). I really enjoyed the simplicity of the race, where you have everything working as it should and you can really focus on your running. I also liked the fact that you could just hang out once you finished your run and really meet and talk with other runners. Everyone seemed to be happy, relaxed and very approachable. After the race was over, everyone was ushered to the next door local brewery where you could pick up your well deserved cold BEER and delicious hamburger of sandwich of your choice.

What you need to know, consider:
1. If you are flying in from different altitude try to ease into the race until you get used to the thinner air.
2. The course is two different loops a smaller 3 miler and a larger 10. You start running uphill, but once you tackle that part, the course is pretty easy.
3. This is a walker friendly race and they have different Start times based on your running/walking ability. Organizers want everyone to finish around the same time, so the beer stays cold for everyone. This starting strategy was actually very cool, and I could see the finisher whiz by me around mile 10.
4. Pick your correct Start Time. Keep in mind, since this is a smaller race you might end up running a lonely race if you start with runners that are way below or above your pace.
5. Baggage Drop - there is no specific baggage drop. This race is run mainly by local runners who were driving to the race and did not need baggage drop. Out of towners, like myself, just asked the volunteers to keep an eye on our warmer layers until we finish the race and can pick them back up. Worked out well, but as the race grows, this is an area where the Race Organizers will need more planning and attention.
6. There is an awesome raffle after the race with very cool prizes so try to stick around, and order another beer while waiting for your name to be picked ;)
7. This race offers transfers for Runners who can no longer participate in the race.

Overall it was a very good race, I would recommend to my friends and I might even return for another awesome medal!

Not race related: If you are in Grand Junction, try to drive out to Utah and visit Arches National Park for a shake-out hike. It will worth your time!

I was travelling in the area for work and signed up for the race very last minute.
I always wanted to attend a hot air balloon festival and the race was just an additional plus to check the event out. The balloons were awesome, but if you really want to see them, go and do that the day before the race. The race entry comes with complimentary tickets to the festival so use them!

Warning: The main event is NOT the Race itself but the Balloon Festival, so you will have to get around people and crowd that has not much to do with running in general. The course was flat and easy, run mainly in the local neighborhood & park. I spotted some horses, and of course the balloons in the air... Parking seemed to be a nightmare, so I used the hotel shuttle to get to the start line and back to the hotel after the race, which made everything better logistically.

Packet pickup is not anywhere near the race, so don't leave the pickup for last minute. I picked up mine in a local sports store and I was able to buy some essentials at the same time. There is no expo, no fuss which I actually liked.

The race is very unique because of the balloons. I would strongly recommend checking it out if you are in the area or if you need to run a race in this State. You will remember the race for years and their medal is one of the best!

Quick, quick, you still have time to sign up for this year's race!
I don't really like the 5k distance but LOVE airports. When I found out about this race I signed up right away. If you ever dream of running down on one of the busiest runways in the world, don't hesitate and sign up for this local race. The race is organized by the local Rotary Club and it is still a relatively small race.

Some runners complained that the surface was very hard. Well, it has to be to support all the air traffic... Don't forget this is a real runway that is closed down for the 5k. The organizers place at the turnaround point a big commercial aircraft so you CAN NOT miss the turn! It is so amazing to be out on a runway and run toward this huge airplane. They also had real time traffic control on a loud speaker, which I found very entertaining.. so if you are an airport geek this race is definitely for you! If you are not, no worries, the race is also family and walker friendly.

What you should know: Arrive early. A bit of a headache to get to the start line. I shared a cab with a few other runners to get to the packet pickup. Runners will have to get on a bus (after t-shirt and bibnumber pickup) and be bussed to the runway. The organizers do not know in advance which runway you will be running on. I am not sure what happens if you miss this shuttle bus, so be there early if you can...

Be prepared for the wind. You are running on wide open terrain, and the wind can be pretty strong.

I would definitely recommend this 5k for every runner (until is still available)!