I ran this for a long training run as part of my marathon plan. I didn't taper or try to race it in the least. I figured I'd go around 2:25, so I am pretty reliable :) I had been walking every .5 miles in training, but tried to test out my race strategy here. So - I walked every rest stop and every time I felt like I "needed" to (hills, to take a gel, etc.). I did try very hard not to walk just because I lost interest in running, which is a problem for me. Overall I consider this VERY successful and I enjoyed the event. I chatted a bit with a guy after, but skipped the post race festivities. They have a fun party at Lola's, but since it's a bit of a walk and I didn't know anyone it didn't seem worth it.