In addition to perfect weather, a lot more was really right about this year's event. The new course adjustments made the run more scenic (although weather probably contributed) with mountain, forest and river views. Signage was excellent and reliable. I had my doubts about the early morning chip pick-up but volunteers were awesome: organized and dedicated in the cold dark morning. When I had a problem seeing my race results after, people were responsive and on it right away. All in all, a great job. Congratulations on making it look easy!

I participated in my 1st New Balance Fall Classic run yesterday, along with 4 others in my family "clan" :-)

As with many (I am guessing), I don't often send in comments to event organizers, but I am compelled to do so.

I am impressed - well done, thank you. Definitely differentiated yourselves, and enjoyed very much. Especially noteworthy given the size of event you are operating, you compete with the "biggest and best". Some of the things that stood out:

• well organized

• regular communication, email, etc

• friendly, inviting tone

• well organized on race day, including friendly and helpful volunteers on the course and back at the SRC, etc.

• draw prizes were excellent, though would have been better should I have won!! :-)

• value added items such as the running gloves, etc.

• food was absolutely incredible, please pass on a word of thanks to all the sponsors/contributors - I have never seen it that good, seriously

I could go on - of course, the announcer, finishing chute and help, many of the other "givens" that we come to expect - all there.

I had a great time this year. It has not always been this way as both times I have competed in the past (2001 and 2003) there were serious course problems - it's taken me 4 years to get over my disappointment of paying for racing a half marathon but not actually getting to run one. This year picking up the number/chip was swift and easy, the course itself was exceedingly well marked and staffed with volunteers, and best of all, enjoyable to run - I like the course that you obviously had to work very hard to put together quite late in your planning process due to the ongoing construction. Well done. You have redeemed the race and I'll be back next year.

Thanks for a great race! I know you didn't have much say in the weather but whatever strings you pulled work. This was my favorite 1/2 marathon yet and I've done 5 now (you beat out Disneyland even!). The post-race food was great and the garment is cool (gloves also an excellent touch). I love how runners got to go inside to get warm and eat with places to sit.