I ran this race on February 25th 2018.
Half Marathon #11

I had a 1.5 hour drive out to Syracuse, and was accompanied by my boyfriend and a good friend (and fellow runner), although she was not running this Lake Effect Half.

Once we arrived, packet pick-up was easy. The race was well-organized, although there was a very long line for the indoor restrooms (porta potties were fine/no wait). As someone who has been to the state fairgrounds before, I was very concerned about finding the correct entrance and building for the expo center, however everything was very easy to find and there were plenty of people to point you in the right direction.

Despite the unpredictability of Western NY weather in February, the day was great for running. It was around 40 degrees, overcast and a little windy. I was chilly in just a light jacket to start, but knew that I would warm up fast. I love that the race start time was 9:30, as it let me sleep a little late, have breakfast and feel settled on race day. Not too much swag - just a shirt, bib and medal. Post-race food was great - soup and snacks from CoreLife Eatery, which is healthier than normal IMO.

A relatively simple out and back loop, I was surprised by just how hilly the course actually was. My typical race strategy involved a strong push at the beginning. Unfortunately, I expended way too much energy in the first 8 miles, and had nothing left when there were still rolling hills towards the end of the race. I came in with some sore muscles and joint pain in my feet, so this was a race where I definitely did not post any PRs.

The aid stations were great! Around mile 8 there was a HUGE hill and I was very relieved to have an aid station at the top, with lots of enthusiastic volunteers :)

Despite how hilly the course was, and how close it was to the lake, there weren't too many scenic views. I was hoping to catch a glimpse of the water, unfortunately nothing.

Overall, I had a decent race day. The race staff "ran" the race much better than I did. Not sure if I would run the Lake effect again, given some of the other races in the area that I enjoy much more. I would recommend the Syracuse Half course (in November) over this one.

Time: 2:29:55 (one of my worst)