Rock the Parkway is a little over two months away so I figured I’d mention this race first. A lot of runners will tell you that this half marathon (or 5k) is a must. I participated in 2014 and ran for a friend that could no longer run. Race week for me was tough. We had just closed and moved into our new home only to discover that the floors had to be refinished, which meant we had to move out and live in a hotel for a week. It was one of the most stressful weeks of my life (long story). Unfortunately, race day was not easy for me either – I struggled almost the entire race. I was tired and most certainly had shin splints. I got almost the exact same time as my first half marathon and I was dissapointed. (I’m super competitive with myself.) My current PR is 1:45 but my time that day was a lot slower. Some days just aren’t your day!
This race definitely deserves a second chance and here’s why:
- The April time frame usually means awesome weather.
- In 2014 it was 60+ and sunny. I was a little toasty in my leggings.
- The half marathon start time is 7:30am and there is a wave start, which makes the start less crowded.
- There is plenty of parking at Burns & McDonnell and Rockhurst + numerous porta-potties near the start.
- It was voted Best Race Course in Kansas City and is part of the Heartland 39.3 series, which consists of three local half marathon completions.
- The route starts at Burns & McDonnell and takes you along scenic Ward Parkway and through Loose Park. This is an out and back course.
- There are usually 3-4 bands.
- The course is fairly rolling hills. Whoever said this course is flat be cray.
- Make sure to start slow and steady as the first three miles are gradually uphill. You’ll want to save some energy for the hills through Loose Park and so you can sprint downhill the last mile or so to the finish line!
- A girl puking up the hill by the playground at Loose Park still haunts my dreams 😦
- Make sure to start slow and steady as the first three miles are gradually uphill. You’ll want to save some energy for the hills through Loose Park and so you can sprint downhill the last mile or so to the finish line!
- On the course you’ll find water, Gatorade and GU.
- Because this race is on Ward Parkway you will find so many spectators and peeps to cheer you on.
- TONS of swag and a great finishers medal. The tech shirt is actually super cute.
- There is post race grub from local KC restaurants.
- Make sure to sign up early as this race typically sells out around January/February. The half marathon is capped at 7k runners.
- This is a great race for running newbies! Click here for RTP “groupie” runs leading up to race day.
Sweat Adventures 