Feb 12, 2017 – Highlands Golf Course, Edmonton, AB
This was my third consecutive year running the Hypothermic Half Marathon in Edmonton. This event is hosted by the Running Room at cities all across Canada. The route was still the same as the last 2 years, but this year for the first time ever, they also added 5K and 10K options to the event.
The weather was great this year. Just below zero and no wind. As with previous years, the course featured one water station that half marathoners passed 4 times throughout the 2 lap figure eight course. The 5Ker’s turned around at the water station and the 10Ker’s turned around a little short of one of the loops. The course was mostly gradual inclines and declines with no real tough hills. The field is mainly experienced runners which can be off putting to those running their first half marathon. This was my 13th half marathon and although I did not set a personal best, I did achieve a personal Hypo Half best. Running on snow and ice makes this a larger workout than a spring or fall event but it is very rewarding to tackle the challenge. As always, the medals were awesome but there was some talk among the 5K and 10K finishers that they would have preferred if the ribbons on the medal stated the distance ran. All finishers got the same medal, regardless of distance.
This event also continues to host the best post race brunch buffet of pastries, French toast, scrambled eggs, eggs benedict, bacon, sausage, muffins, and fruit. There is also a variety of juices and coffee in the golf course club house and all free with your entry fee. All runners also got a knit and embroidered toque and a good quality backpack just for signing up. For the swag, bling, and food alone, I will continue to come back every year. This event sells out every year for a reason. They sure treat runners well!
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