BAA Half Marathon

THE SWAG: The BAA has a variety of swag available for purchase before the race that showcases the four races they put on annually (5k, 10k, Half and of course the Boston Marathon). While the swag is a little pricey for a sweatshirt, it is high quality and is super cute. The race itself comes with a long sleeve dry-tech shirt in some combination of the BAA classic colors (Blue, Yellow, Gray etc.) and includes the famous and coveted unicorn emblem.

THE RACE: The day of this race in 2016 was freezing cold and pouring rain. Despite those obstacles however, the race still went on without a hitch. Parking for this race can be tricky, as official race parking is out in Copley Square, with BAA sponsored shuttles (school buses) to the starting line, about a 20 minute ride. Although not the most convenient, this option was very well organized and I arrived to the starting line with relatively no issues and with plenty of time. The course for this race is relatively flat with a few areas of rolling hills along the way. Although a majority of this race takes place along a not-so-scenic highway section, there are several parts of the race that weave in and out of Franklin park and include nice forest shade and views of Franklin Park and Boston's Willow Pond. The highlight of the race course for me was the last mile and a half which weaves in and out of the Franklin Park Zoo, offering views of the animals enclosures and exhibits.

THE BLING: All the BAA medals look relatively the same, the unicorn shield with the BAA race title and the year of completion in the top right corner. Something that might be good to know is that the medals increase in size based on the distance of the race, don't expect a Boston Marathon sized medal at this race! It is exciting however, to have a unicorn of any size in your collection. For those who complete the 1/2 marathon as part of the BAA Distance Medley you can expect to receive the distance medley completion medal along with your half marathon medal.

FINISH LINE: The BAA half marathon wraps up in White Stadium, a sporting venue within Franklin Park. What is cool about this finishing venue is the stadium seating it provides for spectators. Despite the pouring rain there were plenty of fans in the stands cheering on the finishers. Afterwards, the BAA sets up a large celebration with plenty of photo ops and snacks.

The Maine Marathon: The Way Races Should Be

THE SWAG: Both years I've run this half-marathon the swag included a long-sleeve dry-tech shirt featuring the logo of the marathon and race sponsors. These shirts quickly became one of my favorite to wear on runs during cooler seasons. The race also comes with a sweet goodie bag filled with a variety of samples and snack, including a can of B&M beans who's factory is located alongside the race course.

THE RACE: This is one of my all time favorite races. A relatively flat course with just a few rolling hills the half marathon course runs through the back bay of Portland and alongside the beautiful Casco Bay. The course is extremely well stocked with Gatorade, water and aid stations - many of which are staffed by the local college's (University of Southern Maine) track and field team. There are never a shortage of fans and cheer groups along the course which adds to the energy and excitement of the race. The out and back course starts and ends on Portland's Baxter Boulevard a water side area of the city with ample views and photo opportunities.

THE BLING: I am never disappointed with the Maine marathon medals. This year, the medal came with a special surprise. It lit up! Appropriately themed with nods to the state of Maine, the medals often feature lighthouses and the Maine state bird the Black-capped chickadee. In more recent years the race has gone through some rebranding and the medals have looked a little different, but are still high quality and flashy!

FINISH LINE: As a middle-pack / slower runner I am always worried that i'll miss the excitement of the finish line. However, since this race is a combination of 5k/Half/Marathon and Marathon Relay, no matter your finish time you can expect a crowd at the finish chute. The finish line includes a variety of vendors and a massage tent, the perfect post race celebration!