Packet pickup was held at a running store in downtown Lawrence. The running store (Gary Gribbles Running) offered 20% off for runners--how nice!
The race started right on time after a few short announcements. The trail was in perfect condition--lots of beauty all around. The trail is a tricky one, though, with lots of leaves down on the trail covering up potential tripping hazards like stumps and rocks. I witnessed three different runners go down.
The aid stations were absolutely stellar! Even though I'm slow and I'm sure the volunteers were cold and tired, they still cheered for me and rang their cowbells like I was a winner. The volunteers were so helpful in filling water and making pb&J tortillas. The last aid station even gave me a shot of rum! Perfect for a misty and cold push to the end.
The race coordinator is so sweet and meets all the finishers to give them their "medals" which are one-of-a-kind hand made and ceramic --- so much better than a giant, made-in-China medal.
The finish line had coffee and soups and beer along with a cozy campfire to dry me out.
An awesome race!