“Disclaimer: I received free entry to the Art Van Turkey Trot 8K race as part of being a BibRave Pro. Learn more about becoming a BibRave Pro (ambassador), and check out BibRave.com to review and find and write race reviews!”
I enjoyed the Art Van Turkey Trot 8K this year and I will tell you a few reasons why.
The packet pickup was split up into many days both Sat/Sun over the weekend as well as the day before packet pickup. If you really were in a pinch they did also have same day pick up which is super convenient for those that do not live close to the race itself or if you have family visiting from out of town. It was also great to be able to pick up 5 packets at one time if you needed to. Large group packet pickups were already sorted if you were part of the flock which made grabbing packets easy. The flocks also got extra swag of a cute mug at the end of the race. I was able to get in and out of packet pick up in under 7 minutes which was great considering the line for pickup was outside the door. The swag was great. I really love the Always Be Thankful shirt. The shirt is a great message and gave me something themed to wear to Thanksgiving dinner. We also got some probiotics, a can holder and a zone perfect bar.
The day of the race parking was easy and close at the Lincoln Park zoo or local street parking. It was cold but the pre race activities were going strong with vendors, food depository drop off, corn hole, giveaways and samples of food. In the corrals the pace times were clearly marked however some people did not adhere to this or the rules of strollers in the back. The start of the race there was not an issue as the race directors let ample time go between waves. There was Gatorade and water with plenty for the back of the pack. Race Guards were also present during the race in case any injuries appeared.
The end of the race had less of a bottle neck compared to last year and moved more smoothly. The post race food was great with 2 mini pumpkin pies, popcorn, bananas, water and Gatorade, beer, bloody Mary shooters, and plenty of free samples along the way. It was also quick and easy to get a photo and due to Athlinks all the photos were free!
There were plenty of volunteers on the course which made the race experience so much better! I got a chance to meet many from out of town including a whole family from London. The family friendly feel at the end really leads to many open conversations and possibly new runner friendships. I will absolutely do this race again. I may want a whole flock next year!
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