Disclaimer: I received free entry to Hot Chocolate 15k Minneapolis race as part of being a BibRave Pro. Learn more about becoming a BibRave Pro (ambassador), and check out BibRave .com to review find and write race reviews!

I was very excited to participate in this race since it was my first out-of-state race (I’m from Colorado) and my first 15k. I was also 15 weeks pregnant, so I was ready for a challenge!

Expo: Honestly, the expo was a bit of a let down. It was fairly empty when I arrived, and seemed to be mostly for packet pick up, rather than an opportunity to learn about other brands and get samples. I did appreciate the opportunity to trade sweatshirt sizes (if needed), and grabbed some delicious chocolate treats before I left.

Race Day: Parking seemed to be a challenge for some, but you could reserve a spot, so that was nice. I personally was staying in a hotel nearby, so I was able to easily walk over. Most people took advantage of the drop bag area since it was cold to start but warmed up fast. Set up of the area was nice, very organized and easy to navigate. There were plenty of Porta-potties, and they had them along the course as well. The MC did a great job in hyping up the runners and getting the race off to a good start.

Course: I have to start by saying that the pacers (from Beast Pacing) did an awesome job. They were enthusiastic, encouraging, and friendly. The course itself was beautiful. It was an “out and back”, with a clearly marked turn arounds for the 10k versus 15k runners. However, you didn’t take the exact same route to run into the finish line, so the variety was nice. It was a lovely and well-maintained scenic run along the Mississippi River with a handful of bridge crossings. Some considered it “hilly” but coming from Colorado, the 300 ft elevation gain didn’t seem like much at all. Aid stations were well stocked with water, Gatorade, gummy bears, and chocolate treats and the volunteers were very friendly. As a back of the pack runner, it was great to cross the finish line and get handed my medal with as much enthusiasm as an early finisher.

Post -race: Plenty of opportunities for great pics with all the signs and blow up decor located around the race area. Of course, the post race chocolate was delicious, and I had plenty to even share with my kids. I loved the free race pictures too, and was able to download them by the end of the day.

Altogether, it was a wonderful experience and I would be happy to race any Hot Chocolate series in the future!