This was my second year doing the race and I enjoyed it even more this year than last...possibly because I wasn't pregnant this year, or maybe because I won...whatever the case, it was fun!

Packet pickup at the expo the day before was nice to get you all set for a smooth race morning. There are running stores set up at the expo so you can get your race day gels, etc. right there. Also some fun sponsor swag and stations for the family to make signs.

Race morning is easy with plenty of parking around the capitol square. The 'inner square' is completely closed off to cars for the race which is nice to be able to get in your pre-race warm up, find bathrooms (at hotels around the square or porto-potties) and generally just walk around.

This year was cold so the gear check right by the start was great. They provide bags and were very organized. I even kept my cell phone in mine with no worries.

The race itself was very smooth, well marked at each mile, plenty of aid stations and lots of support out on the course. I enjoyed the variety of the course and the challenge of the hills in the last part. I'll definitely keep doing this race!

This is a great race starting and finishing on Madison's westside, at Hilldale mall. It's a challenging course with some hills sprinkled in, but plenty of support from other racers to keep the spirts high. The shirts were nice, soft short sleeve...something I wear often with a pair of jeans. Nice finisher medals and fun post race vibe.

The race itself is all about women power! I enjoyed the positive energy and supportive women before, during and after the event. The course is well marked and supported by plenty of volunteers, aid stations, and spectators. Ladies all along the course cheer each other on, no matter what speed. Very inspiring and motivating.

I'm not sure why, but there are not many fast runners at this event. There isn't much/anything much for awards, which is probably part of it. I've ran it the last 2 years, both times going around a 1:20 and there is never anyone in sight....BUT they do provide a lead bike, which is nice!

After the race there was plenty of the normal spread of post race goodies, along with the option for a free beer at the restaurant at the finish.

I'd recommend this race to people local and for someone looking for a fun destination event, especially great for a weekend girls trip. Madison had TONS to offer for a visit and lots to see!

This is a great race starting and finishing on the Capitol square. It's a challenging course with some hills in the last few miles, but plenty of crowd support to bring you through! The shirts were nice, soft long sleeve...something I wear often for spring or fall running. Nice finisher medals and prize money was a plus. This time of year can be pretty good running weather in Wisconsin - usually ranging 20-50 degrees.

The race itself is very professionally produced and had that 'big race' feel to it. The course is well marked and supported by plenty of volunteers, aid stations, and spectators Because of the prize money there are some fast runners that come out, so it's pretty likely that you will have at least someone around you of similar pace. Speaking of pace, I believe there are also pacers for this one! So if you are in need of a group, this is a good race for you!

Before the race there is a gear check to throw all of your warm stuff. It's real close to the start/finish, so very easy to find. After the race there was plenty of the normal spread of post race goodies, along with the option for a free beer. They had tables to stand around and have a drink with either live band or a dj. Around that area was also a nice backdrop to get a finisher photo with yourself or your family after the race. I happen to really like mine, as I was almost 7 months pregnant at the time of the race...so I was very happy to finish and be able to still be running relatively quickly.

I'd recommend this race to people local and for someone looking for a fun destination event. Madison had TONS to offer for a visit and lots to see!