I've run this race on July 4th a number of times and each year this event has improved. What did bug me was that there was no National Anthem played prior to the start of the race. Come on Guys it's the 4th of July. The birthday of this great nation.

Still one of my top 5 favorite 5K races. Well organized run on a beautiful course. Digital mile time clocks were spot on. Beer, (limit two beers) watermelon, pretzels at the finish line. If you registered early enough you had your name on your race bib. I like that.

Sweet home Chicago is my hometown marathon. The course is flat, fast, and a great opportunity to push your limits and show off the results of all those summer miles logged under the heat and humidity while your friends sought shelter and air conditioning.

This year's race had perfect weather and