For starters, it is a later start (10 AM) than your typical half marathon. I liked how they had walkers start early, than slower runners, before the main pack last.
All the money goes to helping families affected by cancer. Despite that, a 60 dollar fee was all it took to get in. The shirt and medal were simple but nice.
In terms of convenience, the course is literally right off New York 17 East, which connects up with I-87 very easily. Parking was around the course, and there was plenty near the expo. Having same-day pickup was a plus.
The course has more hills than your typical race, and the hill around mile 8 is enough to really test your mettle.
Communication was fantastic-the race director's emails are different from the corporate version of so many races, which is refreshing.
I don't like doing the same race twice, but I may be back for this course.