I've raced Coogans several times. NYRR is a great organization and the logistics of their 5ks like Coogans is impressive. Washington Heights has a lot of culture to be enjoyed during the race. Ft Tyron Park and upper Manhattan is fairly hilly, so this is NOT like racing

Chicago is one of, if not the best marathon. The crowd is packed along the route, cheering on all of the runners the entire time. The course is almost entirely flat. The volunteers and workers are incredibly supportive and helpful and everything runs like clockwork. This was my 4th time running

Feel good, positive, supportive group of women at this race. It was well organized and even a beginner could easily navigate the when, where and how of a Tri. The Syracuse area is a great place to visit in the summer. Lots to do on a weekend visit.