Disclaimer: I received a free entry to the Willimantic Classic race as part of being a BibRave Pro. Learn more about becoming a BibRave Pro (ambassador), and check out BibRave.com to review find and write race reviews!"

The Willimantic Classic is my third half marathon of the year. It was also the race that completed the criteria I needed to become a Double Agent (more about that later). The race is sponsored by the Willimantic Athletic Club in quaint Willimantic, CT. The race was small and had three distances, 5k, 10k, and the half marathon.

Packet pick up

The Willimantic Classic is a small race so there wasn't an expo (my wallet rejoiced). Packet pickup was at gym the day before race and I was able to pick up my packet in less than 5 minutes. Race day pickup was also an option. Each packet included the race bib, shirt, a deck of cards, and other snacks and samples.

The Race

Parking for the race was the easiest task I have every completed for a race. I parked right next to the starting line and there was no traffic. That was a great way to start the race. The half marathon started at 8:30 am, but walkers were allowed to start at 7:30 to give them plenty of time to finish.

The route started in downtown Willimantic, which has a historic feel, and then we transitioned to running on a trail. The remainder of the course was through neighborhoods in the city. The course had rolling hills and was similar to the terrain in ATL. The weather was cool and there wasn't any part of the course that was physically overwhelmingly difficult. Mentally, it was difficult to pass by the finish line midway through race and not get to cross. At least the midway point was the infamous Frog Bridge.

There were tons of volunteers and spectators along the route. A lot of the route was in rural areas so it was awesome to see people cheer for us from their front porch.

Overall it was great race and I would highly recommend it. I had fun and now I can cross Connecticut off my 50 states list. Another great thing about the race is that I became a Double Agent (Marathon Maniac + Half Fanatic). I am excited to be part of a new tribe and look forward to more run adventures.