This was my second time running the Halfsy. As the title suggests, it is a perfect balance, catering to those wanting to chase a fast time, as well as those who want to throw the watch out the window and simply enjoy the experience.

The race is put on by runners. Even if you don't know that, you can surmise it by the way they cater to you. They are extremely forthcoming with information leading up to the event, and even sponsor training and yoga classes.

The expo is full of energy and fun - they truly make it an event. There are photo opportunities, prizes, multiple vendors and food/beer samples. You receive a lot of good swag. The t-shirts are very good quality, but they run very small, which is very disappointing. That's the one down-side for me.

The race itself is on a very runner-friendly course. While there are some sharp turns, most of the elevation gains are in the first half, so you get them out of the way in the first 3 (or so) miles. After that, it's relatively downhill to flat the balance of the race. The crowd support is fantastic and there's a ton of energy throughout the majority of the course. Aid stations are spread out well, and there are tons of volunteers.

The finish line area is like a giant party. They have tons of food, water, Gatorade, beer, etc. They also have a full room dedicated to recovery, complete with at least a couple dozen massage therapists and PTs. The medals are also very high quality and unique.

This is such a unique and fun race. Whether you want to chase a PR, or are simply out to have a great time and not care about time, I highly recommend it.

If you're looking for a very friendly, intimate and accessible race experience, Logan View is it. This is not a huge, big city event. You get that vibe immediately, and it's refreshing. The race is put on to benefit the school, and it is evident in everything they do.

Packet pick-up was a breeze and wasn't too far from the start line. Inside the packets are the usual items, but they also put good luck notes that were handwritten by the students. As a dad myself, I thought this was a really cool touch, and can see how it keeps the kids interested/engaged in the event. The shirt is a good quality short-sleeved shirt that I wear all the time.

The race starts in the school parking lot, and only about 1/8th mile (total) of the 1/2 marathon is on pavement. Once you exit the parking lot, it's gravel city. Back country roads with lots of rolling hills. I knew it was going to be tough based on the elevation profile, and it didn't disappoint. It was TOUGH!

There were many course monitors and volunteers along the way either stationed at specific spots with water/Gatorade, or driving along the course to check on runners. The aid stations didn't have food (that I knew of), but I usually don't need any, or bring my own, so I wasn't expecting it.

Also, the course was really challenging! Did I mention that? :)

The race is chip-timed, and once you finish, you have accessibility to a chiropractor to help stretch you out. They cater in BBQ for post-race food, which totally hits the spot. Since it takes place at the school, they also give you access to the locker rooms to clean up/shower, which I thought was great.

The awards are awesome. They are laser-cut wood and pretty large! I was the overall winner of the 1/2 (I've never won a race before, so I was kind of shocked), and I received some other prizes, including a giftcard to Scheel's. I thought this was really cool, too!

Overall, this is a really fun and low-key race. You feel welcomed right from the start. I highly recommend this to anyone that wants to mix it up and do something other than a big city race!