RUNable Race Review: Cupid Shuffle 10k

RUNable Review:

Price

At only $25 for “Early Registration” and with a 10k distance option available, the price point of this race hits the nail on the head! In addition, a portion of the proceeds are donated to the Habitat for Humanity of Brookhaven. (I love a worthy cause and HFH definitely fits the bill.)

T-shirt/Swag

The T-shirt is Gildan brand, “Softstyle Ring Spun,” and a 65% polyester/ 35% cotton blend. I prefer this blend because it’s more diaphanous, and here in Mississippi where our warm days are plentiful, a lightweight garment will certainly see more wear than a thick, heavy cotton one. I also like the dark grey shade. The back of the shirt is typical in that it is covered in the logos of the race’s sponsors. The race logo itself is centered largely across the front of the shirt. I prefer a smaller “pocket size & placement” logo, but the cupid shuffle logo is super cute, and the shirt material is soft and lightweight. <3

Expo/Finish Line

The Finish Line had a fun atmosphere with a great sound system blasting popular tunes. At one point they (of course) played The Cupid Shuffle and many race participants joined in the impromptu block party and were dancing in the streets! Coffee, cupcakes, conversation hearts and Hershey hugs & kisses were available, as well as bottled water and full-size bottles of Gatorade.  Another nice touch was the neat “Cupid Shuffle” wooden frame which made for the perfect photo opportunity.

Medal/Awards

All finishers of the 5k and 10k races received a nice custom-made finisher’s medal. These were created specifically for this race, not just an inlay medal like many races use. The first male and female walkers and runners to finish all receive a free race entry into another race in the Ole Brook Run Series! Age group awards were pins meant to be placed on the ribbon of your finisher medal. I really liked this concept!

Volunteers

Everyone I encountered was super friendly and helpful. There were plenty of volunteers all along the course and at Packet Pick Up. PPU was organized and efficient.

Course Scenery

The race began just outside the “Harper House,” a government building where Congressman Greg Harper’s office is (or was) located. They allowed us to use the REAL BATHROOMS inside which is always a plus. (Porta-potties are sometimes a welcome site, but a REAL BATHROOM is always the preference!) The route itself wove thru downtown Brookhaven, around the Exchange Club Park, and through several residential areas.

Course Difficulty: LEVEL 2.5

Raise your hand if you knew Brookhaven was so hilly!! I, for one, had no idea. But, I have officially been enlightened! This course was fun and challenging with numerous inclines and rolling hills.

Aid Stations

There were two water stations on course; one around mile three and the other around mile 5. Both were staffed with friendly volunteers providing water to participants.

Parking/Access

I was able to park right around the corner from the start line. **Runners: we run long distances for fun but complain about having to walk a quarter mile to our cars after a race.** Ha! Well, this was not the case at the Cupid Shuffle. There was plenty of nearby parking available for participants and spectators alike.

Race Management

Let me tell you, a race director can “make or break” an event and Defining Moment Events really knows how to “make” a successful race experience! Jennifer and Steven McMorris are knowledgeable and dedicated to hosting safe and fun races for their community, and their commitment is evident. From their pre-race promotion to their social media presence, to providing participants information through email, to their comprehensive website that included an official “race guide,” this event was top notch.   This runner is IMPRESSED! I would highly recommend you check out one of the upcoming Defining Moment Events. Next on their calendar is The Whistle Stop Challenge, and there are also four races left in their 2019 Ole Brook Run Series. I hope to see you there!