Online registration was very simple. They set you up with a fundraising page so you can fundraise on top of the registration fee – but it was not required to fundraise. Extra giveaways if you did fundraise though. There was no option for packet-pickup before race-day which was a bummer, but there was no line race morning which made it very easy. Pre-race entertainment included a DJ and expo area with plenty of swag. They also had a bag-check tent but I didn’t utilize it because the parking lot was so close to the race area.
There were no lines drawn where the elite runners were versus normal runners versus walkers and strollers, etc. They just asked that elite come to the front near the start line. I didn’t personally have any issues with that as I fall in the majority with all the normal runners. But I could see that getting frustrating if you were an elite that couldn’t get to the front due to crowds or something similar. But again, no real effect on my personal experience as I was in the majority. There was no music on course other than at the start/finish line and there were 2 water stations. Water stations were at 1.5 and 2.5 miles. There was a TON of great locations for spectators. Many chose to set up lawn chairs along the Memorial Sports Area. It was an officially timed event, chip was in the bib.
Post-race, Special Olympics athletes gave you your medal and then Cocacola was there handing out free waters/sport drinks/sodas. No swag given just to runners (like a snack box or anything) other than the medal and tshirt but there was plenty of swag at the Expo. Good size expo for a race with just over 1,000 runners. Optional pancake breakfast for an additional $10 if you wanted.
I would recommend this race. It was well organized, entertaining and great for all ages. Easy course and everyone from runners to those working the event were very friendly.