My hometown race. I want so badly to give it a great review, but I can't. From packet pickup to finish it let's you down. The pre-race expo has only one vendor, Playmakers, the lead sponsor. The swag bag provides you a tech shirt and a pair of socks (men's large socks). That's it. Nothing else. Not even coupons from area businesses. The course is pretty fantastic, though not flat. Aid stations are adequate with water and gatorade. Some have GU, but only salted caramel. Fantastic track finish with bleachers and cheering fans. But the you are met with another letdown, no official race photographer. No race photos, no finish photos, nada. There's a photographer on the course, but there are only a hundred or so photos on their page. $97 registration with 2750 marathon runners. That's over $266000. Really disappointing. If you run this race, bring you camera and someone to get photos along the way and at the finish.

It's a truly remarkable out and back course with views of East Grand Traverse Bay along the way. There are no huge climbs, but it's not flat either. A great race for BQ. The volunteers at the aid stations are great. The swag bag isn't great, but there is Moomer's (quite possibly the best) ice cream at the finish. The weather is typically pretty good. The race starts in the 40s, but warms to the low to mid 60s by completion.

Maybe my favorite half, but not for faint of heart. There will be hills. The race director clearly enjoys watching people in pain. There are three small hills in the first few miles, but nothing like what greets at mile eight. At mile eight you begin a nearly three quarter mile ascent that covers 252 vertical feet. When you finally reach to top of the winding hill, you are directed into a road side park lovingly known as "inspiration point." Luckily it is also the largest aid station. Next you descend 256 vertical feet over the next mile and a half. The finishing three miles are mostly flat and picturesque around big Glen Lake. The finishing shoot is at the same location as the start in this loop.

Rounding out the day you will find Glen Arbor to be hosting it's annual BBQ and Brew Festival. A little food, a few pints, and a dip in Lake Michigan make this race a weekend to come back for. Even if you have trouble getting up stairs for the next week.

This isn't your average half. It's mostly a road race, however there is a bit of a trail run about mid way. As you transition from the first half of the race to the second you make your way through the Ludington State Park near Hamlin Lake. This is a rolling, sandy path that is often single track. There a few opportunities to pass through the woods without going off trail. A quick stop to empty the sand from your shoes and you're back on the road.

The finishing five miles are incredible. You make your way back into Ludingtin from the state park along the shores of Lake Michigan. With only small rolling hills on the way in, it sets you up for a quick finish.

The races has been happening for over thirty years. The town supports the race well. Be sure to grab some lunch at Hamlin Inn downtown and Chuckwagon Pizza for dinner. Maybe the best pizza on the planet.