Light The Way 5K - Pigeon Forge, Tennessee - Running

"I love eastern TN but was disappointed in this race"

I love eastern TN and was excited about this race and seeing the 5 million plus lights. Unfortunately I was a bit disappointed.
NEGATIVES: First of all, when running/racing it my husband and I realized that unless you are walking the course or jogging slowly you really don't have an opportunity More... when racing by to appreciate the lights. Instead you are trying to focus on where to go next. We found some parts of the course to not be well lit enough and we had to really focus to try and see where to go next (obviously this does not affect walkers or those going slower paces). I was also disappointed by how much of the course was actually in the parking lot of Dollywood rather than in the park. During that first mile in the parking lot there was a VERY sharp turn at the bottom of a steep hill. Both my husband and I each had a different runner wipe out ahead of us trying to make the turn. The course was said to be certified but the path we all ran simply did not add up to 3.1. Most people had it at around 2.7-2.8 miles on gps watches and times reflected that. There also was some issues with the timing and awards were delayed. They seemed to sort things out for the most part but some of the places were not correct. POSITIVES: If you want to walk with your family or friends and appreciate the lights of Dollywood (not race) it likely would be lots of fun. The awards for the top runners are very good - such as a ticket to Dollywood & gift certificates to Dicks Sporting Goods. The volunteers were all friendly and cheering for the runners. Those in charge were apologetic about issues. Another positive: It's in eastern TN! :)