This was my first year doing this race, and I decided to "do the double". The first race was a very the Tough Cookie Trail run (4 miles). And it was incredibly difficult. At one point, I wished for a pick axe. The trails were a bit soft from rain and dew. There were two very significant hills built in, I literally had to lunge-hike the 2nd, there was NO RUNNING it, I even had to use my hands. The trail ran alongside the river. There were rocks, gravel, it was definitely tough terrain. Then, there was a break. See, the 4 mile race came at 7:30am, then the 8k road race started at 9. So when we finished the trail race, we had a break in between. I was worried I would stiffen up during this time, but it was actually nice to have time to stretch and take a drink (and a cookie break!), especially since I pushed so hard on the trail run (placing in my age division!). Then the 8k road race started. This started out on the same mulchy-dirt trails, but made it's way out onto the rock and pea gravel roads, which again included some hills. It was an out and back course, which I'm not a huge fan of, but it was nice to see all my runner friends. It was challenging having come off the tough 4 miler. There was water on the 8k about half way through. I placed again in my age division. I was a bit underwhelmed, since this was the first time I placed, especially in a double race, I thought I deserved a medal. But I got two boxes of thin mints and two girl scout thin mint sprint cups. Hey--it was a cheap race. They had a mini-expo inside with lot's of free goodies, race atmosphere was jovial, and I got a long sleeved hunter-green shirt that says, "One tough cookie" for Doing the Double. 2014 will be their 10th anniversary, and hopefully they're planning something big! Parking was a bit messy by the end of the race due to volume, but overall it was a great experience. Course is buried way back in the country on a girl scout campground, but signage was adequate.

The Swedish American Hospital State Street Mile is an amazing race. I ran this as a kid, and had not contemplated running it as an adult until a friend recommended it. Initially, I thought I would run for fun with my kiddo, but my competitive spirit got the best of me. I did some time trials in the weeks just before the race to see if I could sustain any type of a sprint for the distance. I truly did not appreciate the work that went into sprinting full charge for one whole mile! But it was an amazing experience, and thanks to the level and slight downhill (though USATF approved) course, I finished faster than I had hoped for. There are several "heats" to the race. It is fun to watch the Wildcats (kids running club) and the High School competitive kids run for qualifiying times (close to 4:00), and the Masters run just before competing in the "Open" heat. They finish off with a little kids sprint across the State Street bridge and they get a ribbon. There were plenty of prizes, especially if you were a USATF member. The food options for purchase were not the greatest, but the downtown Rockford area offers many options. Also, since the race is held on a Saturday evening, it's nice to stick around and eat, drink, or go out, and you shouldn't be too worn out! T-shirts were simple cotton, but the race fee was incredibly cheap. I would highly recommend this if you're looking for a mile challenge that is USATF certified and you'll be in the Rockford area. Times are charted by finish cross, no chip.

The MELD race is a great way to get in a run on a "party" holiday--the 4th of July. This race offers an 8k and a 2mi run down the bike path along the Rock River in Rockford, IL. We ran the 8k, and the race was early enough (8am) that the heat didn't bother us until the end. Parking was ample (I'd recommend parking at Zion Lutheran Church, or the YMCA, NOT the ice rink), porta potties sufficient, and race atmosphere (as always in Rockford), electric! The race started on Madison street with the singing of the National Anthem, and then ran out and back down the bike path (turning around just as you finished the path in Loves Park). As you crossed the finish, you were awarded a soaking wet COLD sponge! Awesome! Then you got to watch the 2 milers hoof-it while you ate a banana, bagel and cookie. Race food was perfect. Great cause. T-shirts left much to be desired, but 2013 was a bad year for t-shirts overall. Mine was a bit small, and the mustardy-yellow didn't go well with the red writing. But I love races for non-profits, and I'd do without all the swag so they could have more funding!

Literacy Council is by far my favorite race. For 2014, they are offering a 10k as well (held May 10 if you're looking!). The race is held on a Saturday which is nice for recovery purposes. No chip timing. You start off on pavement and then make your way down gravel trails, eventually hiting paved bike path. You'll work your way onto grass and mulch/dirt trails, and then technically single-track trails, with a few "obstacles" thrown in here and there. Strategy is important if you're in it to win it. Start near the front and don't get caught behind slower runners. If you're caught at the back of the pack when you hit the single track trail, you're not going to be able to pass. You might be able to make up for lost time when you get out to prairie paths and the pavement againg, but around mile 12, you'll meet EDWINA. Edwina is mean. She will break your spirit. She is a heartbreaker in her own right, and she will burn out whatever your quads have left. Most people wind up walking/shuffling Edwina, so make sure you are prepared! I believe they are chip timing starting in 2014, so don't worry about having your tear tag ready.
After you finish, enjoy an amazing lunch of craft beer (Carlyle brewery), Red Lobster cheddar bay biscuits, and local food. T-shirts are tech shirts, and the overall race quality and vibe is carefree and good cheer. Plan to get dirty and bring a change of clothes. The woods are muddy! Parking is great, there are accessible potties (you are running through forest preserves). The scenery and course are gorgeous, as everything is blooming in spring, and you run along the Kishwaukee River and through 3-4 forest preserves. Your time will likely be slower than a road-half, but that's okay and there won't be any judgement from your fellow racers!

I travel in for Chicago races from Rockford, so from a traveler's perspective, this is a great 'investment' race. A typical run down the lake, with a nice finish across Soldier Field. Weather was a bit unpredictable the year I ran, but that's Memorial Day weekend for Illinois! T-shirts were small, but BEARS colors (Go Team!), and the medals were awesome. I loved crossing at the 50 yard, and the race photos were brilliant. It was a little difficult navigating the grounds after the race due to congestion (and it was really cold), but if you like the crowds, this is something you'll be prepared for! 10 miles is a nice distance, and the course was well groomed, nice and flat.