Although I would have loved to write a review of a wonderful race in the beautiful Des Moines area, writing a review of the virtual race will do too :) I did enjoy having the flexibility to pick the date I wanted in the span of Oct 16-31st to run- it was especially helpful being slightly injured to pick a day that my ankle was feeling at its best. Race management was wonderful with sending out periodic emails to remind participants of the race and how to complete it as well as submit times. I really like that the way that times were recorded were just to enter our race distance and time into a website. It made it super easy for someone like me who isn't the best with technology, lol. And since there were no winners categories or anything like that, to me it made sense to make the process as simple as possible.
Also with the race being virtual, I was able to pick a course that worked best for me. With my hurt ankle, I picked a mostly flat course to avoid hurting myself further. As disappointed as I was to be running a virtual race, I think it really worked out for the best. The community for the race was very supportive and made it a very fun experience for something that is new for everyone! I am expecting my race swag to be sent to me shortly, and I can't wait!!

I previously ran the half marathon which went well, and thought I would try my luck at the full. It was a lot of fun and VERY challenging, but I'm glad I did it. I will be doing it again with more training. I loved the beginning running through downtown Raleigh. The course thins out when the half breaks from the full and gets a little more challenging to stay motivated. Many super kind volunteers who encouraged me to keep going when all I could do was hobble the last 3 miles! Loved it!

LOVED THIS RACE SO MUCH!! I've done it twice- once with a friend and once with my dad (who came to support me the first time and loved it so much he wanted to do it too!) The scenery is incredible, you get to run RIGHT PAST the front door of the Biltmore. Ugh. So incredible. I will definitely be doing it again.

Ran this half with my dad and loved it. Pretty flat the whole time. Out and back where the trail can get kinda clogged up with runners but as long as everyone is following the rules, not a problem to pass others when needed. I would love to try the marathon for this course. This race also got me my favorite race shirt and lots of cool swag- and an awesome post-race party.