I ran the Run the Bluegrass half marathon in March 2018 and somehow convinced the family to drive from New England to race country in Kentucky. The race is self-proclaimed as America's prettiest half marathon. The race course spans from the track and Kneeland through roads that take you to several horse farms and back to the track.
I happen to be writing this in 2021 - on the same weekend as the race.
The drive was a bit of a stretch for the kiddos - but there was a plan. Caroline was going to be in Kentucky with her family - so the kids could see each other. I call that a parent win - kiddos enjoyed the visit.
The race expo was hoppin! Some of the race memorabilia for purchase sold out during the expo. I was hoping to add to the trucker hat collection. Packet pickup was organized as well. Pick up your bib, grab your race shirt, stickers, or any other swag. Things were so well organized I would consider doing this race again! And of course, it felt like a back-yard party at the expo.
Race day started off a bit on the cooler side, so I dressed up in way more layers than were needed. Fortunately, the main building was large enough to hold a crowd of runners, support indoor lines in and out of the bathroom, and pre-race yoga. A great start to a half marathon.
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| The Pre-Race Selfie |
Race day was a bit chilly so I layered up - should have brought some throw-away items! The course warmed up fast! I stopped along the route to remove some layers- this caused me to lose a few minutes on the course. So did a pit stop or two during the race.
The race course is a bit hilly - more on the back half than the front half. Mile 9 was THE WORST. The signs on the hill were entertaining and great motivators. My favorite was "Ain't no time for Walken" with a picture of the infamous Christopher Walken.
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| No race is complete unless you have a post-race medal-wearing selfie! |
It was nice to have the family at the finish line and to see them cheering runners on. I saw the fam right before I crossed the finish line 💗. The kids asked what took me so long. Ha! My pace is a bit on the slower side. After all, I don't really train...
This race was a PR for me: 2:20:55 for a finish time without much training. I have no clue how long my longest run was prior to race day. I'm pretty sure I ran the Little Rock Marathon before this race.
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| Cannot leave Kentucky without some bourbon crafted by the race sponsor |
Curious about the gear, pros and cons? Here is a readers digest synopsis of my experience with this race:
Shoes: Topo Flylite 2
Compression: I don't remember...
Pros: Felt like a party, race signs, perfect running weather, near Bourbon country, Half Marathon PR
Cons: Hilly back half
Race injuries: Nada! I felt great 😁
Rating: 4.5 out of 5 running shoes. I would consider doing this again but fly rather than drive.
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