This race is on a narrow, paved trail, so was a little crowded, especially at the start -- dodging runners, kids, and dogs. That said, this is a very well-organized, low-key race. Runners start at the Healdsburg Running Company, which organizes this event, and you run up and down paved trails, crossing several streets (many thanks to the volunteers at the intersections who managed car traffic), and ending at the Healdsburg Fire Department, where for for $10, you got the Sweetheart Breakfast -- pancakes topped with strawberries and whipped cream, scrambled eggs, bacon, and orange juice. Swag was a fun, red and white truckers hat with 'Love Run" on it -- it actually fits, so I'll definitely be wearing it. Race registration is only $20 -- a fundraiser for the Drew Esquivel Memorial Scholarship Fund; Drew was a Healdsburg local and runner.

This New Year’s Day race starts at 10 a.m., so if you were out a little too late the night before, this later race time works great! It starts and finishes at the Yountville Community Center. Parking is abundant — both on the street and in local parking lots. The race is on local trails and streets — there is one short uphill at about Mile 3 of the 10K. Water, bananas and orange slices at the end to replenish. Afterwards, there are a number of cafes and restaurants nearby for breakfast. This was my first 10K after years of no running, so it was my slowest 10K by far. Hopefully, next year when I run this race, I’ll be much faster!