andrea rodriguez's Staging Area

Half course was really nice the first 6 miles running through downtown Charleston then it was straight 6 mile run through an industrial area. Course was flat and on paved road.
Finish line and post race party was a mess. It was very cold (in the 30s and windy) and I saw 5k runners had Mylar blankets and was in need of one at the finish line but nothing. Some volunteers handing out medals and water bottles being a free for all. Everything was a line, getting food, swag, shuttle, and no way of know where the start or end of a line was. Instead of having runners get their swag and food tickets at packet pick up, runners had to get it at the post race which is probably was it was so chaotic. I got my swag and left because I was not going to keep going from line to line.
Parking was a mess. The venue was too small for the amount of runners and spectators there. My family came to cheer me on and had to park a mile away from the venue and they arrive at 6am.
Small changes would make a big difference but I definitely would avoid this race company. Other runners told me that this race company has not done well with other races they have organized.

What an amazing experience! Plenty of swag, hospitality, and goodies from Amish country.
Well organized race with an amazing atmosphere. I ran the 5k and half to complete the firemen’s challenge which was worth the extra miles. No medal for the 5k but race tee included as well as campfire smores and if you do the challenge you get extra swag. This year was a thermal water bottle. Lots of course support, great farm scenery, and great atmosphere. Plenty of rolling hills then a few big ones around mile 9 to 10 and no shade due to all the farms. Tough for someone from Florida or any flat area.
The ultimate swag is the half medal. An actual horseshoe used within the community and retired to become the half medal. I truly understand why so many people have this race on their bucket list and come back year after year. Remember to watch out for road apples on the course (fun Amish saying for horse poop)

Great well organized race and packet pick was easy. This race does not have an expo just a packet pick up the day before. The packet pick up did have a few other items for sale (two shirts, a sweater, and glassware) relating to the race.
Race is in the downtown area so parking garage charge an hourly rate but there is free street parking around the area.
Course does a nice job taking you around the Portland area with lots of ocean views. After running a lot of big races, this race had a small town feel. this race has a big race production with a small town charm.
Mostly flat course with two hills at mile one and mile 10. Mile 10 hill definitely hits you, especially being next to a cemetery.
Beer garden by Shipyard brewing company with two complementary beers and plenty of water with snacks.

Well organized race, nice course through the city, and great medal.
Weather was tough with rain the whole time in 50 degrees but I managed a personal best.
Major issue at this race were the bibs falling off. I noticed bibs all over the course and managed to catch mine before it was lost to the course. Race organizers claimed not being able to get the proper material but it just seemed they were just being cheap.

I have run this race several times and always enjoy it. It’s well organized, good communication, great swag, and amazing medals. Challenge medals for consecutive years are a big incentive to come back. For the half marathon there are two course options; If you want to take it easy then south and if you want to run and not dodge walkers go north.

Well organized, scenic course, and great swag. Race did a great job communicating information and course expectations. Morning of the race was very cold and there was hot chocolate and coffee available which was a nice touch. being able to explore Yellowstone and then run this race was an amazing experience.