The Christmas Carol 10K is run at City Park in Denver as are many runs in Denver. It just so happened that we had snow about a week prior to the run. I contacted the run management to ask about the course two days prior to the run. I was told that the course had been cleaned and all would be fine. We had sunny, warm days (for December) the day prior to the run so I felt good that the course would be fine. When I showed up, what I found was ice for the first 25 yards leading up to the start line and 10 yards past the start. That meant we were not able to get a good start...people were walking and sliding everywhere.

The majority of the course had been cleaned, but there were a few corners that were icy. Over the 10k course, I fell 3 times because of ice. The finish line was the same as the start so instead of sprinting the finish, I had to walk gingerly to make sure I did not go down for the fourth time. The kicker was that after I finished, got my water, and was heading out, they were finally cleaning the ice off of the finish line.

The aid stations, difficulty, scenery, and parking were the same as any other run at City Park. That does not change much no matter who is managing a run at the Park. However, I refuse to run any event operated by the company that put not he Christmas Carol 10k after this event.

The start/finish line is one of the most important areas and that should have been cleaned. The ice on the course should have been marked. I saw at least one person who was not able to get up after falling on the ice. This could have been avoided if the management really had cleaned the course and any small ice patches properly marked.

This was my first half marathon but I had run several 5k and 10k races prior to the Omaha Marathon so I knew a little of what to expect. The course was laid out well and it was fun to run through downtown Omaha without any traffic. We even got over by the river and there were some nice views there.

The staff and volunteers were all nice, knowledgeable, and very helpful. It was a great experience and I enjoyed it enough that I have continued running half marathons.

What a way to start doing half marathons than in New York City in Central Park. My sister and I went to NYC from the Midwest just for this run/walk. It is a great way to spend the weekend.

The expo was huge and there were all types of vendors there showing off their products. I liked the expo because you could wander around and talk to the vendors (unlike other runs where you are pushed through to see every vendor). I end up spending more time with the vendors of interest rather than just trying to get out of the maze.

What else can I say about the scenery. You do a lap and a half of Central Park in New York City. The views and atmosphere is great. Plus this is a women’s only run so it is inspiring to see some of the stronger women run past. It motivated me to improve my running.

The after party is just as much fun...you are in NYC. You can go and see and do just about anything. We ended up walking over over Manhattan after doing the half. There are so many great places to eat. I definitely replaced anything I used during the half.

I would recommend this to any woman...the place, the atmosphere, the other competitors make it a fun day.