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Latest reviews by Andrey Ablamunets
Andrey Ablamunets recommends this race
(2016)
"Beautiful Surprise In South Minnesota"
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It is crazy to think that I have lived in Minnesota for 16 years and have never been down to Mankato. Well running the Mankato Half Marathon was a great excuse to make my first visit!
I ran this years Half Marathon on what had to be the best weather weekend in October! Starting off with the bib pick-up and expo on Saturday, organization was spot on. The expo and starting line were at Mankato State University. The bib pick-up was super easy. The expo was small but there were a ton of activities for kids. They had everything you need for race prep. Gels, food, liquids, and clothing were all for sale. I got to sign my name on the big board and my GF was able to make me a sign :).
Race day starting line is in a large parking lot with a ton of parking available. There was water and a bag drop for runners to use. The 10K started first, then the half and full started at the same time. The starting chute was very crammed but once you passed the starting line it was easy to find your pace. There were plenty of pacers for you to run with (thanks MN Pacers).
The course was the best part of the race. Elevation did not have a huge impact on the run except for some small hills here and there. The course was very beautiful. You run through parks, through the city and along side some farm land. Course is clearly marked and there are a ton of spectators! Mile 8(ish) was an awesome surprise where more than 100+ spectators gather to cheer and bump some music. There were plenty of water and sport drink stations along the course. You finished downtown Mankato with a huge finish line!
As you crossed the finish line, you were presented with a great designed medal. There was plenty of food and drinks for you to indulge in at the end of your run. You were also given a bag so that you could stuff it with all the goodies. There was plenty of entertainment at the finish line. The bars and restaurants had a ton of seating outside so that you can relax, have a beer, and enjoy the live band.
Two thumbs up for the Mankato Half Marathon! I highly recommend and will probably be returning in the future!
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Andrey Ablamunets recommends this race
(2016)
"A Mental and Physical Challenge W/Tons of Support"
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Ragnar is an awesome running relay! Each team of 12 runs 200(ish) miles from Winona, MN to Minneapolis, MN down the Mississippi River Valley. Each person has 3 running legs that range in distance from 3 miles to 11 miles. The team is split up into two vans of 6. While one van is running their legs of the race the other is resting at the next big exchange.
The event if very well organized with clear running routes, directions, exchange info, facilities, and first aid stations. There is a small expo at the beginning and a large expo at the end. Teams get really creative with costumes and decorations of their vehicles.
The event is exhausting because of lack of sleep and the amount of running that you are doing, but the support through out the entire 24-36 hours is amazing. Teams help each other, there is a ton of fun and excitement, and it is an overall great event.
I highly recommend this event!
Andrey Ablamunets recommends this race
(2015)
"Best Urban Marathon"
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The Expo:
Expo is at the River Center in St. Paul. There are about 100+ vendors at the show that range from other races in the midwest looking to promote to vendors selling running equipment and giving away samples. There are ton of people so it can get crowded but definitely worth taking a stroll through the whole thing
Pre Race:
The race starts in downtown Minneapolis. Unfortunately there is no cover or really easy way to park in downtown. I got dropped off all four times that I have done this race. There are plenty of portable toilets and a ton of race officials and volunteers that will help you in any way possible.
During the Race:
So much beauty around Minneapolis and St. Paul. You run through historic neighborhoods and hit every major body of water Mpls and SP can offer. I say this every time but this race has the best spectators! There isn't 10 feet of the route where there aren't fans cheering you on. The course is very well marked with lots of water and aid stations. Only bummer is that it is pretty hilly especially mile 19-22. Other than that it is an amazing course.
Post Race:
You end at the St. Paul capital. There are a ton of fans there and lots and lots of food, beer and pictures. Great place to hang out a bit after and awesome race!
Andrey Ablamunets recommends this race
(2015)
"Beautiful Run Down Mississippi River"
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I have ran this race in 2014 and 2015 and I had a great experience both times. The race runs down the Mississippi River with beautiful views of parks and the river. There are plenty of water stations, volunteers and directions. Parts of the race is on a shared road but things are very well designated for runners and cars. The race starts and ends at Minnehaha Park where there are plenty of facilities and room for warm-up and cool-down. After the race they offer food and drinks including chocolate milk, water and juice. Really fun, low key race to get you out of the Minnesota Winter Slump!