Y2Y Time Prediction Race

Race Date: April 26th, 2015

Location: Cedar Rapids, IA

Race Length: 8 Miles

Website: http://corridorrunning.com/race-event/y2y-2015-2/

Me on the left, around approx. 4 miles. 

This year, as a substitute for the past Mall to Mall race, a new race was created with the same concept as the old race, predict your time and if you guess the closest to your finishing time, you win. However, as Westdale mall in Cedar Rapids is no longer there, race director, Mark Powers utilized local YMCAs and the running trail in town to create a brand new, wonderful race. 

The one nice thing about this race is that, although long, this race is open for any ability. As long as you can guess accurately on how long it will take you, you have a chance for winning. Yes, now 8 miles is long, however on a trail system that many local runners and walkers are used to, the 8 miles feels more like 5 or 6. I am not kidding. Things seemed to fly by. I really enjoyed that aspect. Also, the course, (At least for this year), has a net downhill. Mall to Mall used to rotate which mall they started at, and I wonder if next year the course will be reversed again, because next year, things will be tougher if the course reverses. 

Post-race festivities were fun, as every participant had a chance to win some awesome prizes. It was also neat to see how close the winners were in guessing their own times. Also, there was a lot of food for participants, including a lot of home-baked goods. Yum. 

I will say the only thing that bothered me some was the complaining that other participants had. Many people overlooked the rule that if you wear a watch or are listening to your phone, your time will be disqualified from winning the event. I ran into quite a few people who were complaining that they were just listening to music and they dont understand why they cant have headphones in. Well the thing is people, no one can prove that youre not listening to an app telling you your mile splits. That was my only complaint. Maybe next year, have some of the bikers or other volunteers have music so people dont have to rely on their own devices? Just a thought. 

Overall, I really enjoyed this race. I cant wait for next year to see the changes, if any, that Mark makes for the event. I know this year went wonderfully, and I know the following years will be just as good, if not better.

So in general:

Pros

• Welcomes runners/walkers of all abilities
• Downhill course
• A lot of fun, within the course and during post-race

Cons: 

• Cannot have a watch or phone

Honestly, I loved this race, and I know a lot of other participants that did as well. I encourage everyone, walkers, runners, ect., to come out next year and partake in a super-fun event. I hope to see you all next year!