Latest reviews by Chelsea Maroney

(2018)
"PRs All Around"
Overall
T-Shirts/SWAG
Aid Stations
Course Scenery
Expo Quality
Elevation Difficulty
Parking/Access
Race Management

First time running the Mag Mile and it was awesome! Aside from my husband and I both getting PRs, it was so cool to run along Michigan Avenue with NO cars on it; only runners (I noticed buildings I have never seen before). The weather was ideal and we set ourselves out at good pace (thanks to our training). The aid stations were plentiful and terrain was not too difficult. I am used to running along the Lake Shore for Chicago races, so this was a nice change of pace. One of the best parts about this race was the booze, brunch and band at the post-race party! Definitely recommend this race and will be running it next year!

Login or sign up to leave a comment.
(2018)
"My legs were burning!"
Overall
T-Shirts/SWAG
Aid Stations
Course Scenery
Expo Quality
Elevation Difficulty
Parking/Access
Race Management

Being in the suburbs, we have several races around that don't get the recognition the Chicago races get. This was a short and sweet race to raise money for the Cary 26 Education Foundation. For a smaller race, I thought it was very challenging: turns out Cary has way more hills than I was anticipating. The race took us through the neighborhoods of Cary and ended with a lovely spread of snacks and beverages for refueling. This is definitely a family friendly race and raises money for a good cause! Although it was very hot for September and started a little later than I am used to, I may just run it again next year.

Login or sign up to leave a comment.
(2018)
"Better Late Than Never!"
Overall
T-Shirts/SWAG
Aid Stations
Course Scenery
Expo Quality
Elevation Difficulty
Parking/Access
Race Management

I know this race was in MAY (I'm so behind...so I'll make this short and sweet) but better late than never!

I absolutely LOVE LOVE LOVED this race! Everyone told me that it was one of their favorites in Chicago, and they were totally right. The race was run very well in terms of organization; I knew exactly where I needed to be and when. Throughout the race, there were plenty of aid and water stations and everyone on the course was very friendly and encouraging.

The piece de resistance of this race is the finish! Running through Soldier Field and having a veteran put the medal around your neck was an unforgettable experience (I may have gotten a little emotional turning the corner to the finish line).

I HIGHLY recommend this race, it is not one to miss!

Login or sign up to leave a comment.
(2017)
"Longer Distance, Still Love the Race!"
Overall
T-Shirts/SWAG
Aid Stations
Course Scenery
Expo Quality
Elevation Difficulty
Parking/Access
Race Management

My husband and I participated in this race a few years ago and ran the 5k. This year we wanted to up the miles and ran the 15k instead!

I LOVED this race a couple years ago and continue to love it now. The time of year is perfect, the temperature is cool but not cold. Also, aside from the crazy amount of chocolate and treats you consume after (and during) this race, overall, it was very organized. While the expo did not have as many booths as I would have liked, picking up our packets and gear was very easy. We knew exactly where to go on the day of the race, as well. The aid stations were always fully stocked (including Nuun, which was a DEFINITE bonus), however, I would have benefited from one more aid station around mile 8. The gear this year was on point with fit, style and color! The cheering sections throughout the race weren't half bad either!

This was the farthest distance my husband and I have run and we could not feel better about our performance! Can't wait to run it again next year!

Loading Comments...

Login or sign up to leave a comment.
(2017)
"Love Me a Turkey Trot!"
Overall
T-Shirts/SWAG
Aid Stations
Course Scenery
Expo Quality
Elevation Difficulty
Parking/Access
Race Management

Let me start by saying that I LOVE turkey trots! What a great way to start Thanksgiving Day (and earn every last spoonful of stuffing and piece of pumpkin pie). This was my first race in Highland Park and overall, it was a great race.

Packet pickup had to move due to some unforeseen construction, which was fine. However, a few of the machines were not working so pickup took much longer than anticipated. I know technology can be a pain so that didn't really sway my overall opinion of the race.

Race day, parking was fantastic, SO MUCH PARKING! The start time was great and they got everyone moving pretty quickly. Everyone helping out at the race was very enthusiastic, especially at the aid stations, which was extremely helpful. As I said, this was my first race in Highland Park and did not anticipate the amount of hills I would be encountering (my fault, not the races, but BOY were my legs burning!). The apple pies running through the finish line weren't half bad either.

This race was the perfect way to start off the day and overall felt exactly how a turkey trot should feel: laid-back with some nice scenery and tasty apple pies to finish it off! Definitely would recommend!

Loading Comments...

Login or sign up to leave a comment.