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Product Review: RunnEr BOX

1/22/2017

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Disclaimer:  I received the Runner Box to review as part of being a BibRave Pro.  Learn more about becoming a BibRave Pro and check out BibRave.com to review, find and write race reviews.
I was lucky enough to try out a new subscription box! I've always been a fan of the subscription box concept and have tried a couple different genres of them. This one obviously piqued my interest since it is built just for runners!
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The box contained ten items. My first note is that almost all of them were food. I definitely understand and agree that nutrition is paramount in endurance sports. However, I would hope (and don't know if they do this) that they mix the contents up a bit and make sure a lot of runner-specific items are added in each edition of the box. My next critique has to do with the food options specifically-- I couldn't have some of the included items because of my nut allergy. I also didn't see this option on the website when signing up. I get the sense that all boxes are the same for every runner on the months they go out. I don't believe it is possible to request specific profiles for this subscription box.
Now, don't be discouraged. I had not heard of any of the included items in the box, and was very eager to try them each out. I especially liked the Zest Tea because I am a tea drinker. Again, I was just excited to get to try out items I hadn't heard of before.
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Runner Box ships on a bi-monthly basis. Keep in mind they do charge you for shipping in addition to the box price (which is somewhat uncommon for subscription boxes) but for what is all packed into that box, I can justify it!

All in all, I would definitely be interested in trying out this product over time and seeing what kinds of fun things it would bring. Check them out here!
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Race Review: Rise & Shine 5k

1/6/2017

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"Disclaimer: I received a free entry to the Rise & Shine 5k 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!”

I loved getting the chance to be part of the first year of a new Chicago NYE tradition! It was a 5k course starting and finishing in Millenium Park.
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Registration opened in November and prices increased every few weeks up until race week. I did feel like the peak pricing was steeper than I would normally pay for a 5k. I also feel like lots of people don't make their NYE plans until much closer to the actual day than they might plan for any other race.
Packet pick-up was offered the day before at Fleet Feet - Old Town. Since I couldn't make that, I was pleasantly surprised that race day packet pick-up was offered. It was very quick and I only waited in line less than five minutes.
Instead of a shirt, the swag item was a hat and gloves with the race logo on them. They were exceptional quality for an otherwise giveaway item. They were really warm and cozy! I have so many race shirts, so I'm happy to get something I know I will get a lot of use out of!
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Before the race began at 9:00 am, there was a stretching session lead by an instructor from a local gym. Then, when we lined up, the emcee was very energetic and did a good job at getting everyone psyched up to start! The corrals were organized by pace, which helped keep this small (1,025 runners this year) organized quickly and efficiently. The race started down Randolph and lead to the #ChiLFT (lakefront trail). It was a sunny day, so it was nice to be able to enjoy the view along the lake. The course eventually found its way past an aid station (water and Nuun were offered) and then into the relatively new Maggie Daley Park. Beautiful park to run in! The finish line was back in Millenium Park and was very energetic. Some snacks and bottled water and Nuun were handed out.

All in all, I really enjoyed this 5k. It was light and fun-spirited. I would definitely do this race again!!
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Special Note: Though every effort is made to provide the most accurate and up-to-date information, I cannot be held responsible for misinformation. This site contains many of my personal points-of-view and does not necessarily reflect the opinions of my employer, the American Cancer Society, Bank of America, Chicago Marathon Office & Staff, Chicago Endurance Sports, or Fleet Feet Sports. This page is not endorsed by any third party. All content is my intellectual property, unless otherwise noted, and All Rights are Reserved on my content. You may request to quote me or utilize the information herein only by obtaining my written permission. Please use the Contact page to do so.  If you suspect any information is incorrect or it appears to be your intellectual property, please notify me via the Contact page. Eric Blasius, All Rights Reserved 2018.