Wow, what a huge race for a Sunday Morning. I've never done the Bucktown 5k race before, but after doing 2014's edition, I'll certainly be adding this to my racing calendar. The race convenes at Burr Elementary School in the Bucktown Neighborhood, and navigates around some very nice apartments/shops in the Bucktown Neighborhood. Other than the Shamrock Shuffle, this could be the race that most emulates the Chicago Marathon, as it captures some of the neighborhood beauty of Chicago's West Side.

I biked my way to the race, but if you are thinking of commuting by car, good luck. I saw folks walking 5-6 blocks just to get to the start/finish line. If at all possible, take public transportation or do what I did, bike to the start.

I did the 2014 Bucktown 5k in under 26 minutes. This is a race that you can easily get a PR since the streets are absolutely flat and the course is very fast. The officials closed down the whole street, including having permits for people to move their vehicle, which relieved any potential congestion along the roadways. Didn't hurt that the temperature was in the lower 50s, which made for perfect running weather. Also the race swag was really unique with pants this year (a nice change from the typical t-shirts and hats that most races give away). Really shouldn't be surprised since RAM Racing wants to be unique and give swag that people will actually use.

Only two issues, one was the gear check lines. It took about 10 minutes to gear check my items in, a bit longer than I was hoping for. Also, there wasn't much to eat or drink. I know the race officials were promoting "after race party" discounts and flair at some of the local businesses, but you had to spend some money to get something. No breakfast/snacks/beer was offered at the finish line. Kind of a bummer.

Overall, I thought this was a great race and the organizers did a great job of putting this on. Can't wait to do this again next year.