This was my second time running this beautiful half marathon. I am local, and the logistics of this race could not be easier. Packet pickup is a breeze, and you get a really nice tech shirt and bag with the race logo. There is no "expo", but there is a nice farmer's market going on across the street. On race morning, I could roll in pretty close to the start with no worries whatsoever about parking. Such a nice change from big races when you need to get there early! The weather this year was gorgeous, sunny and not too warm. Here are some high and low points:

PROS:
-Truly, the most beautiful scenery around. Every mile is gorgeous!
-Organization: the director and volunteers clearly put their hearts into this race. The RD hugs every runner at the finish line!
-Logistics: SO easy! This is a small race in a laid back town.
-Swag: nice shirt, great post-race food
-Course: Not a PR course, but the hills are fun if you like a challenge. Much respect to anyone that manages a full marathon on those hills! It is a mix of paved and dirt roads.

CONS:
-Age group awards: I realize this might be me being picky, but the age group awards for the half seemed to be the finisher's medals from the full marathon. I completely understand that not all races have the funds or capacity for place-specific awards, but if you are going to offer awards, maybe something a little more special (even a mug, anything?).
-The start: there were insufficient portapotties at the start (really long lines), and I believe that the race started a few minutes early this year so people were caught off guard or still standing in line for the bathroom.

Overall, I love this race and the beautiful course so I will continue to return. It is a great challenge and a nice option for a July half or full marathon. The race has so much positive energy. People really seem to be happy to be there running (and same goes for the spectators!).