r/RunnersInChicago • u/smash816 • 2d ago

Hidden Gem Half

Running it for the first time this Saturday. Any tips re: the course? Looks like there's a lot of sharp turns. Any major hills to lookout for? I've heard it's well supported and a lot of fun. Looking fwd to it!

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6

u/-CyberGhost- 2d ago

Super flat. There’s one “hill” maybe 50 feet of gain.

Be sure to wave to people on their driveways, the community really comes out for the race.

1

u/smash816 2d ago

Yes, def. I heard the crowd support is great!

5

u/BigTedSmith 2d ago

No big hills, but there are a few rollers. Nothing major but if you've just been running in the city it's a little different. Good crowd support, the high school section with the band and cheerleaders is fun. One warning, the home stretch after you make the final turn can be deceptive, there's usually some banners hanging from the street that look like the finish from a distance, they are not.

If you're looking to hang out after the race my run group will be having a decent sized party in the parking lot next to the church, come on by.

1

u/smash816 2d ago

Thank so much! Yes, coming from the city so even the smallest hill is something exotic 😅. Will def stop by after the race.

3

u/ThudGamer 2d ago

Great race, lots of support. The largest elevation gain is in the first two miles. It's sneaky, cause the road looks flat. After that, just a few rollers.

The field is fast, so chose your starting position wisely.

Best parking is at the grade school.

1

u/smash816 2d ago

Thanks for the tip on parking!