This Race is so special to me because it was my wife’s first half-marathon. We started her training over the summer and hadn’t spoke of running a half-marathon, because at this point the focus was just to run 5 miles without stopping. She progressed fast and she had 5 miles with consistency down quickly.
The Urban Bourbon was an awesome race and amazing fall scenery in Louisville, KY. The race starts out flat, but conserve energy and keep your stride. Hills come right around 6.3 ish, so pop a gel around mile 5 or so. I have ran this race 3 times and each year I see runners tank out on the steep and long hill to the crest of Cherokee Park. Hill training will be a must to maximize your effort in preparation for this 13.1
The key to this race will depend on sticking with a plan to not take off to fast early and lose your legs through the hills. Get a pace in mind you want to maintain prior to race day and plan… you’ll be fine!
This a great race.

I have ran the KDF Mini Marathon since 2011. It was actually my first half-marathon, so it holds a special place in my heart. The race is pretty flat and I believe the 13.1 only showed about 50 feet gain on my Garmin feedback.
Get to the race at least 60-90 min early. Some of the best parking in down 3rd and 4th street South of Broadway. It’s a great area to park, with enough distance to the start that you can use to warm up.
The water stations are well mapped, and use each one! The volunteers and support throughout this race is awesome. Close to mile 9 you enter into Church Hill Downs (Photo Opt) and run though the infield and back out. If you are shooting for a PR and taking a progression approach you can turn on the jets about half a mile after leaving Churchill Downs.
If the PR isn’t the WHY this time around, enjoy the run from CHD to the finish. When you make the last turn to the finish, take it all in! Tons of support and the medal is waiting.
Great Race, Awesome Expo, Great Experience.

This was my second marathon and a 40th birthday present from my wife, who is from LA. The race starts with a decline, so if you are new to the sport... relax and let your legs guide you. Save your energy because you will need it around 20K! This is a hilly race but one you will always remember.
The race was very well organized and it's best to download the app after you register to keep up with race day communication. I took a Bus into Dodgers stadium and highly recommend you do the same. You will hang out in your corral for a while, but it’s not bad. Plus you’re a Dodger’s stadium with thousands of crazy runners, so enjoy.