Okay K.C. may be a bit out of the way for yall, but I'm based in Iowa City and it's about as close as I can come for a weekend jaunt.

"Rock the Parkway" was new this year, and they had a 5k, 10k and Half Marathon.

One can be wary when attending an event for the first year running, but this one was handled better than most veteran events.

I actually experienced < 2 minute wait for a porta john when only 10 minutes before the gun. That's extraordinary.

Course wise, I can only comment on the half, and it was great. 80% took place on the wide "Parkway", which is of course a wide two-lane route. The only 20% was in annoying neighborhoods where I get scared that I might make a wrong turn. There was no need to worry, however, it was well marked at each corner. But the turns are a bit annoying.

The route is mainly an out-and-back, covering both sides of the Parkway. Runners did not have to worry about the lame turn-around-cone or running right next to people still on their way out.

The only problem I had was finishing the Half along side 10k walkers. I had to weave around, which is hard at 5:30 pace.

It was a solid P.R. for me, and if you are in the area I would highly recommend it. Good course, well run, and the entry fee was only around $35 because I signed up right away. They already have their 2011 race info posted!