A year later and not much has improved. No expo at Navy Pier this year instead we had to pick up our packets at various running stores, which I didn't mind since I was in and out, but every year they said we need some sort of identification and not once was I carded. I even picked up 3 other packets and they didn't even bother to check if I really knew these people. Last year I complained how ugly the blue race shirts were for the 10 milers and this year I ran the 10K so I got a black long sleeve with a silver front, which wasn't too bad but you're telling me the shirt you gave me was a large? Circulations in my arm felt like they were cutting off and it was tight in the chest area. I decided not to exchange size, which I should of because around mile 4 the neck part was irritating me so badly that I had to continuously pull it away from my skin. I ended up with burn like marks on my lower neck area due to the poor sizing and cut of the shirt, which has NEVER happened to be in the 15 race that I've ran with race shirt provided to me. The race started half an hour late, which I didn't mind and I like the 15 minute gap for the 10mi and the 10K it helps alleviate congestion. The course was the same as last year, however, my biggest complaint is there was a split towards the end of the bridge and some of us went to the left while some went to the right, quite a few of us on the left thought we went the wrong way so we started jumping the fence only to find out we were able to connect at the end, but where was the guidance to avoid such mishap? The lakefront path is way too crowded for the amount of runners registered and the race wasn't even sold out. I felt sorry for the elite/fast pace runners who had to weave in and out of people on their way back. I was glad to finish when there weren't too many visitors. By the time I left Navy Pier and runners were still finishing I felt sad for them because you only knew they were runners because of their bibs, the course should of been fenced off so they can be recognized instead of being mixed in with everyone. I felt like no one cared about them anymore because they're at the end of the pack, which is something you should never feel in a race. The medal was a lot smaller than last year but it does spin although I'm still leaning towards last year's better, but they did take into account of identifying 10k finishers with a red ribbon and 10 mile with a blue. The volunteers passing out the ribbons were just handing out the medals instead of making sure the runners got the right color. Great amount of bagel and bananas for finishers. Would of love a water bottle instead of water in a cup. Overall, this has to be least favorite race. I love love love the fact it starts at Navy Pier but the organization of it needs improvement. read more

Chicago's Perfect 10 - Races & Competitions Near Me

10, yes. Perfect, no. I will cut the organizers some slack since this was the race's first year. Overall, the race was fine, but there were definitely some kinks and quirks that need to be worked out. The biggest kink was not the organizer's fault; a few days before the race, the park district forced them to move the start time up an hour. They sent emails and posted notices on the race website; I'm not sure how they could have handled this better, but I know that it was still a frustration for many. 1) I liked the small size of this race, especially because it was the first year. I don't think the race sold out, but the planned cap was 4,000 runners. The small size prevented bottlenecks where the course doubled back; had this race been any larger, it would have been a total clusterf@ck on the narrower portions of the path - especially since the path is still technically open to the public. 2) I don't feel like I got a ton of bang for my buck. I realize that as a late registrant, I paid the priciest entry fee ($70), but taking everything into consideration I don't think this race was worth any more than $55 tops. 3) The expo was unnecessary; there were only a handful of vendors there (Zipcar, Sprint, hippy runner, and the people who are always selling food, clothes and shoes). In the future, they should solicit more booths or scrap it. 4) The goodie bags were a disappointing compilation of race flyers, a coupon for a McGriddle - that had to be used at the Navy Pier McDonald's that day before 10:30, and one sample of Biofreeze. I didn't get a race map in my bag, I found out later that I had to grab one from the info booth at the expo's entrance - lame. 5) The long-sleeve shirts were nice, but the blue 10 mile shirts were kind of ugly; the red 10k ones were much nicer looking. In the future, they could get away with a single shirt for both distances. 6) The medals were nice, but on the website under the FAQ's it said there would be a different ribbon to denote 10k and 10 mile medals. It's not a big deal, but this didn't happen. 7) Updates to the website were poorly maintained. When I didn't get a map, I went to the website and pulled up the map. Not entirely sure exactly where the start was located on the pier, I scoured the website and found nothing. When I checked out the FAQ, I saw this question submitted by another runner, but never answered. In fact there were a number of good questions asked, but never answered. 8) There were plenty of water stations, but it seemed like majority only carried water. The few that did have sports drinks were pretty tight lipped about it - weird. 9) There was only one timing mat, which meant that there were no race splits. It also meant that you could easily cheat by turning around at any point and no one would know. 10) There were plenty of bananas, water, and photographers at the finish line. The weather couldn't have been better for race day; sunny and not too cold, but in the end this race was only ok; however, it has potential. If they work out this year's kinks and make it a better value, it just might be perfect next year. read more

This is a great race if you are a local to the area and working your way up from a 5K to 10K. I've run several races all over the Mid-west so I know what the procedures are for packet pick-up, parking, etc. The only beef I had was that my T-shirt size was too small. I ordered an X-Large and it did not fit me. (sizes run WAY small) They offered packet pick-up in 3 different locations before the race and also on race day to accommodate Chicagoan's busy schedules! As far as parking goes, if you are from Chicago, you should know better than to park at Navy Pier. Parking is too expensive not to mention all the construction they have going on. That's why this city has public transit systems. Yeah, you might have to get up a little earlier but in the end, save the $19 it costs to park (or more!) The weather was perfect for running but definitely on the cold side (40 degrees). I was just grateful it was not down pouring like they said the race was last year. The corral system was a little confusing to the runners but plenty of room to start. Since all the construction was happening on Navy Pier, they have boards up that narrowed the first 1/2 mile. I found it frustrating that people were still walking opposite of thousands of runners who had just started the race. Not good to start your first mile trying to dodge people. However, the reason I give this race 4 stars is because it delivered when it says its on the Lakefront and the best view of the city. They were not lying! Beautiful! Which made me enjoy running for over 6 miles even more because I had something to focus on. Being grateful that I live in such a beautiful city! It is the PERFECT 10K! I would totally run this race again and recommend to friend or co-worker! read more

This event was very well-run. I ran it for the first time this year (this was also my first 10K), and there were no hiccups. I fulfilled 3/3 of my goals, which were to run with my friend for the first 2 miles (clocked in at just over 18 mins, nice and easy), to finish under an hour (my total time was a hair over 47 mins), and to not let anyone pass me (negative splits do wonders for motivation). General comments: 1) The FAQ page should be answered more frequently, or have it as a static list of questions that already have answers. It was over half-blank when I accessed it the night before the race to check up on logistics. 2) The race corrals/timers were appropriately placed, as were the water stations, but not the music. I understand that it was placed at the start/finish to pump up runners and to be economically feasible, but some other music along the way would not have detracted from the scenery. 3) I appreciate having the large Lakeview Terrace indoor space to pick up our bib numbers/swag/warm-up/stay warm pre- and post-race. 4) The finisher's medals are a nice touch. Thanks for the hardware! 5) Gateway for Cancer Research is a good cause 6) The lake-front is chilly/gusty, and my calves tightened up around the 3 mile mark before I started throwing in some speed plays. Dress warmly! 7) Race times seemed a bit faster than anticipated, but that may have been due to the flat course/brisk day/tailwinds. 8) Definitely appreciated having our results almost instantaneously after crossing the finish line, thanks to Accu-Split 9) There were a variety of vendors and sponsors at the finish/inside to hand out an assortment of protein/carb/energy drinks and snacks. 10) Last but not least, a big thank you to all of the volunteers who came out in the brisk early morning to help set-up and run this perfect race. I am definitely considering running in the 10-miler for next year! read more

Overall, this race could use some improvements. Here's a list of things that might help you decide whether you want to run it in 2014. The Good: Nice lakefront run Good cause. Cool finisher medals. Personalized runners bibs. The Bad Less water/AID stations on the actual route than were on the map. The website advertised race day photos from Brightroom. Apparently none were taken. Questions about this on the Perfect 10 FB page were unanswered. Major traffic jam getting off Navy Pier due to construction. Not necessarily the organizer's fault, but runners were made aware of this at the very last second. Some mile markers were missing. Some complained of low quality of race shirt (I happen to like mine). FB page rarely responsive to questions. Twitter account not updated since 2012. As with all lakefront runs, the lakefront trail remains open. That means avoiding walkers, bicyclists and runners who are not a part of the race. Mildly frustrating. Navy Pier walkway not cleared for runners, plenty of tourists strolling as runners were running towards the finish. Overwhelming number of pre-race e-mails. Overall: I'm glad I ran it. Not sure I'll run it again. They need to be a little bit more organized. read more

I ran this race today for the first time & was throughly impressed! Here's why: 1) Clear pre-race communication -but not too many!- regarding packet pickup. Of which they had 3 prior to the race & day of pick up. 2) Well designed, quality, & gender specific t-shirts. (Ladies, you will appreciate this!) 2b) It came in a nice bag I'll use for shoes. 3) You could stay WARM inside up until the start of the race. 4) There were corrals clearly marked for race pace from 5 to 12 mins. Wonderful for keeping the start from getting crowded. 5) Music & DJ to get us hyped! 6) Clearly marked path with mile markers, time splits - motivating! I sped up each time I saw one! - & nice volunteers to make sure we didn't miss our turns. 7) Beautiful medals! Someone truly put thought into its design. 8) AWESOME! Once you cross the finish line they have computers set up. You type in your bib number and you get A PRINT OUT of your time, pace, overall place, sex place, & division place. No waiting! And your name & age is printed on top for added confirmation! 9) Plenty of vendors with samples, water, drinks, food, stretch docotors, photo backdrop & more. PLUS! They're all inside so again, you can stay warm. 10) Great cause!! So what are the cons? None for me!* I will do it again! *I heard that people wanted more water along the course. I ran the 10K option & don't drink during races that take me under an hour to finish. However, I recall 2 stations along this route. One right before mile two, the other by mile 5. Then there was plenty to drink at the finish a mile later. That seems good to me if I had expected to drink along the way! By all means, run this in 2015! A great cause, great gear, lovely route and all for $50! read more

Good race, nice course not as polished as some of the bigger races but it does not need to be. Still a great time. Suggestion unlimited beer at the end. read more

Not bad at all. Compared to other lake front runs, I found this one on par with most others. Logistics, etc, goodies, all fine. For a fall event, I also liked having the expo / post race event indoors. My only criticism for the event is that the folks running the beer tent need to learn to tap a keg and pour beer faster. read more

It's an OK race. There are definitely better races out there, but definitely worse races. I ran this in 2012. I appreciated that they offered a lot of times/locations for packet pick-up. I went to the Saturday option at 900 N Michigan shops, and got validated parking for $2, and there was no line. Getting to the race was easy. It was at Navy Pier and my group got there about an hour before race time, so we had no traffic back-ups. Parking was steep ($19) but there were four of us so we each chipped in $5. Maybe 10-15 minutes before the first race (10 miler) was supposed to start, they announced that both race times were being pushed back 30 minutes. A little annoying when you've already been timing your pre-race food for a certain start time, but at least we were able to wait indoors. The race is on the Lakefront Path. I'm starting to really question paying for races on a public path that I can run for free whenever I want, AND remains open during the race - open to other runners, walkers, cyclists, roller bladers, etc. Also, on the way back, when the 10 milers rejoin the 10K, it was just really awkward. I found myself weaving around a lot of 10K folks going at a much slower pace. And we were on a narrow-ish path with 2-way traffic. Again, I question why I pay for these running conditions. The finish had a typical spread. Cups of water, bagels, overripe bananas, PowerAde, and Zico was there handing out coconut water. However, cups of water (instead of bottles) is a huge pet peeve of mine. I just ran 10 miles. I need more than a little cup of water. The medals were really nice though. Post-race, we could head back indoors. I do appreciate winter races with indoor areas (although it was really warm for this race in 2012 - temps in the 50s). However, the only bathrooms available were the standard indoor bathrooms at Navy Pier. The lines were loooooong. I would have appreciated a few port-o-potties (in the outdoor part) to alleviate that. There was an issue with the shirts, and they did email everyone post-race offering new shirts for those who got one that didn't. My shirt is a bit snug (I got a small, which means they didn't specify gender sizing during registration ... if I knew it would be a women's shirt, I would go with medium.) So I do really appreciate the gesture to fix that. Additional review on my blog: http://www.magmilerunner.com/2012/11/race-report-chicagos-perfect-10.html read more

I'm a fairly experienced endurance athlete and compete in many running, cycling, and triathlon races on a regular basis. I was on the fence about doing this race but decided to go ahead since friends were doing it and I like the 10k distance in the off season. Well, I have to say that this was a disappointment. First, the entrance fee was ridiculous for a 10k....I realize I signed up late but 45 bucks is crazy for a race on the lakefront path where they don't have to pay any fees for reserving it, blocking off roads, or paying for police enforcement. The shirts were okay. The design was nice but they were super small and cheap quality. I heard others commenting on that as well. I also waited awhile at packet pick-up but I went last minute so I won't be too critical about that. The race started 30 minutes late which is unacceptable. They cited parking issues which should not have happened in a race in its second year and which was so expensive. I rushed to get there in time and I had somewhere to be after the race so that was annoying. Also, the later it gets, the more crowded the lakefront path gets so there were bikers riding through the middle of the race. And speaking of the path, it is just too small for a race of this size! There are many narrow portions which made it difficult for passing. I ended up running through the grass many times to pass people. There were also only 2 water stations, at about miles 1.5 and 4.5 so we ran almost 3 miles without water. I would have appreciated 3 water stations. The medals were pretty cool and there was plenty of food and Powerade at the finish. I had fun with my friends but will not be so easily convinced next time! read more

I've ran better races. I was hoping after reading previous reviews from the past couple years that they would improve their race, but I found more cons than pros. Pros: Decent course, early enough it November so the weather was perfect running weather. I liked that there were multiple days and different locations to pick up the packet. Cons: Website didnt match up to what happened in the race, ie; claimed there were more water stations than there were, the route map was not the same as the route we ran. Mile markers were TERRIBLE for the 10k. The start line was a confusing mess. The long sleeve "hoodie" was an awkward fit, extremely sheer fabric, and way too much printing logo ink that the front and back of the shirt stuck together. It was a nice experience and I like to give races a chance, but I definitely don't think I'll be doing this again next year. read more

The race was icy (which is no fault of the organizers) but there was no attempt to salt the course down, so everyone was slipping the entire time. I initially signed up for this race because it was at Navy Pier, but the organizers moved the race to DuSable Harbor with a week's notice. The course wasn't blocked off at all. I'm not expecting much, but when there's a Divvy biker who's basically blocking you the last mile of the race, it gets annoying. Volunteers at the 2 water stations I saw weren't paying attention to the runners. Organizers said results would be posted online day of, but it's been 2 full days and it's still not online. It was cheap for a 10 miler, but I would never do this race again and would not recommend it to anyone. read more

I've done a few 5ks, but this was my first 10k. Packet pickup was easy - had to drive 30 minutes out of my way, but there was no wait at the location I went to so I was in the store less than 2 minutes. I actually like the long-sleeve tshirt, although it's tighter than I expected. Corrals at the start were well marked, and runners were appropriately spaced. After the first quarter mile, I didn't experience any instances of it being difficult to go around people, etc. They played "God Bless America" before the race, but not the National Anthem?? Not sure what was going on with that. The course was well done - obviously beautiful to run along the lake, but also well marked, times displayed at each mile, etc. Also very clear where the 10k/10m diverged, with volunteers double-checking tags to make sure people were heading the right way. (Note: the path wasn't the same as indicated on the website - instead it looped off during mile 3 to go around part of Grant Park then cut back over toward museum campus.) Water station at mile 5 was strange - a few cups sitting out and a jug of water, for you to pour your own (no clue what happened to the volunteers, and given how windy it was, I'm surprised the cups were still on the table). Construction along Navy Pier made the beginning and end of the race a bit awkward - especially the end when some random visitors to Navy Pier were walking along/through the race area. Location was great since you could go inside at Navy Pier before/after the race - it was just over 40* outside so it would have been pretty miserable before/after had we just been standing around. Pricing was $19 for parking which is outrageous, especially since I was coming in from the suburbs (no good way to get to Navy Pier by 7:30 am without driving) and running by myself, no friends etc. to carpool with. Worth it only because of being able to wait inside at Navy Pier before/after. Finishers medals are nice. I saw a photographer toward the end, so I assume pictures will be available. Food handouts were decent after the race but somewhat weird that water was the only drink I saw. read more

They call this race Chicago's "Perfect 10," which could be true if they're using the Richter scale, or if the total points are out of a million. This looked like a great way to start my freakin' weekend, with good weather, a manageable turnout, and a choice of a 10k or a 10-mile run. 10k runners (and 10-milers who haven't mastered the metric system) start first at 7:30 AM at the far east end of Navy Pier. But then problems emerge. For example, during the parts of the run along Navy Pier, there is no barrier separating the runners from the tourists wandering around. Come on, perfect 10k! If I wanted to mingle with non-English speaking people, I'd call tech support or go to medical school. And like a fellow Yelper below, I'm a bad-ass, hunk-a-licious endurance athlete. While others submit a resume when they apply for a job, I hand in a shirtless photo. Bears play dead when they see me approaching. Yes, I attack physical challenges like northern California university police attack unarmed protesters (except on days when I'm feeling fat). But even this Ferrari needs some fuel! There was one aid station along the 10k route. I had more trouble finding H2O than Amanda Knox did finding a new roommate. And although your bib gets you a free post-race expo beer, immediately after the run you are given only bottled water and bananas. That might have worked for a dinner date with Jane Goodall, but runners need more. And planning to keep warm after in the race hoodie they give you? That thing is so thread-bare and paper thin, school children can be seen playing rock, Perfect-10-hoodie, scissors in the school yard (Guess which choice always loses?). Hat's off to those who reviewed the race medals, a truly crucial part of the event. I look forward to reading your other hard-hitting reviews like "Gibson's Steakhouse -- the after dinner mints" and "My Cruise Around the World -- bag check". Fun run race medals fall into the weird-and-sad-if-you're-wearing-them-after-the-event category, which also includes Renaissance festival attire and condoms. Part of the proceeds from this race go towards cancer research. However, if cancer research relies on funding from races like this, it explains why it's taking so long to find a cure. Safe to say, like cancer patients, I won't be in attendance next year. read more

For the first year of the race, it went pretty well. We got lucky with great weather, but i'll try not to let that influence my review. The course was really scenic, and not too crowded at all. (I hope as the race gets bigger in the next few years they adjust accordingly.) Entry fee definitely could have been cheaper considering there were not a lot of give-aways and it's such a small race, but i feel that way about almost all races. The chip-timing was good and the little expo was underwhelming but a nice touch, compared to similar races that don't have anything like it. the only problem was the bathrooms - the lines were too long to go before the race, so i stopped at the first porto-potties on the course, which were quick and accessible. The race started on time and there were a good number of water stations along the course, which was great. There wasn't much of a post-race party, but the medal was nice even though i didn't use the free MacDonald coupon, i appreciate the gesture. Overall, i'd definitely do again next year. read more

Not worth the money. I don't care if it was the first year for this race, there is no excuse for some of the issues that occured. How do you not know that something else is going on at the lake front at the same time? Wasn't this checked out before hand? Found staff at packet pickup to be rude (volunteers were great). Ten mile shirt was an ugly blue and super huge. Extra small was larger then the small, what was that about? Was told I could exchange shirt after the race. Finished in 1:19 and went directly to exchange the shirt and was told by one person "Sorry, all shirts are already packed up as we are getting ready to go", REALLY! Told by another staff member that "We have absolutely no shirts left", although I could see at least 5 boxes of shirts behind the tables. After the race, there were bananas and water, nothing else, not even a sports drink. Parking was $18. Navy pier is closed at that hour so why couldn't race organizers arrange for discounted parking? There are much better 10 mile races in the area, will not be doing this one again. Huge disappoint! read more