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I was looking run a winter half to test out race day strategy for a March marathon when I came across The Whiskey Run, and I'm so happy to have found this race. Located in Chattanooga, TN, and put on by RunRhino (formerly Scenic City Multisport), The Whiskey Run is an annual race held on New Year's Day. Distances include 5k, 10k, and Half Marathon. And what better way to start the new year than a race followed by shots!
Regular priced registration is a little steep, especially for the shorter distances, but there are some great early bird prices that extend into the Fall, so SIGN UP EARLY! The race was very well organized, and the coordinator sent out plenty of communication leading up to race day. The course was very well marked, and there were plenty of aid stations and spectators along the way to help you push through! I would describe the course as rolling hills. There's just over 400' of elevation gain for the half marathon, and most of that comes off of 4 climbs.
The race is an out and back, and the starting line is near the foot of Lookout Mountain. Most of the course runs along the River Walk on the bank of the Tennessee River, and through parts of downtown Chattanooga (including the Bluff View Art District), so you'll experience tons of scenic views and sculptures along the way. The only issue I had was that the length of the race was off. It was short. I know that watches aren't always going to perfectly match up, but this was an issue I personally experienced, then repeatedly heard about from other participants. Most runners were just out for a good time, but there were some who were really bothered by the inaccuracy.
Whatever shortage there was in distance was made up for in the race swag and afterparty. Each runner received:
• Whiskey Run Event Premium Blend shirt (or upgrade to Hoodie)
• Whiskey Series Finishing Medal (this was a little underwhelming)
• Whiskey Sampling (plenty of options to choose from, including our own Chattanooga Whiskey)
• Coffee, donuts and special pairings for Whiskey
The afterparty was held at Crust Pizza and included an endless supply of pizza and sodas. It was great to have the opportunity to hang out with other runners. There was also additional gear available for purchase. I snagged a nice trucker hat.
Overall, this is a great race and I would highly recommend participating if you get the chance.
Early packet pickup was available, but it was nice to have packet pickup available up until just before the start of the race. I was able to enjoy my normal NYE activities and pick up my packet on race morning without feeling rushed.
Bike leads are available to help guide runners through the course and provide assistance if needed. There was also plenty of room to spread out before the race, so the starting line didn't feel congested like a typical road race might.
The best part of running any race in Chattanooga is the amazing views. The out and back course takes you along the Tennessee River, and through some of downtown Chattanooga's most scenic attractions, like the Walnut Street Pedestrian Bridge and the Bluff View Art District.
While the wooden "medal" is a bit minimal, the overall race experience is amazing and full of extras. The afterparty was held at a local pizza place with plenty of indoor and outdoor space, and participants received free donuts, coffee, and whiskey! There was also pizza and sodas, and access to additional gear to purchase. My favorite was the trucker hat!
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