1. COURSE- Keep in mind, MD&D is still what I would consider more of a family fun mud run, rather than an intense and competitive obstacle race like a Spartan Race or a long grueling challenge like a Tough Mudder. Either way, their courses are generally short and basic (and fast!), but also a good time and all-kinds-of-muddy! I always run the 5k race, but its important to note that the 10k version they offer is not just a second lap, and also includes additional obstacles that the 5k doesn't have. Some new and more creative obstacles have popped up, the best in Hartford being a "tiered" cargo net climb which I'll look forward to seeing pictures of. Others were just simpler style tasks that other races have also done- sandbag carry (very short distance), wall hurdles (tallest was maybe 4'), and several mud pit crawls (minus barbed wire, but very "down and dirty"). As much as it is a quick event, you still get your money's worth on the course but even more so with everything else that comes with the day (see below). Grade = B
2. FESTIVAL- Again, smaller than a lot of the other big boys in the mud run industry, but the afterparty has everything that these events should be doing. Music is always on and there is lots to do before, during, or after you or your friends are racing. Vendor village runs the entire perimeter of the finish line exit, with everything from fitness contests and food samples to charities and sponsored carnival games. I didn't get to try it, but the Merrell/REI "zorb" course looked like a blast- akin to running hamster-wheel style inside a bubble wrap sphere. I would also credit the DJ/announcer (who has been at every one of these races), as he does a great job keeping the day transitioned and informing everyone by loudspeaker just exactly what is going on, where, and when. A great experience overall, even if you are just a spectator. Grade = A
3. SWAG- Best in the game. Did you hear what I said there? BEST. Seriously, the take home bag (and yes, they give you a bag too) is legitimately the best offering among these races. I have always loved the tech t-shirts, which are an interesting and different color each year. It's great to have a nice sweat wicking shirt I will actually wear and work out in, and which isn't another black or white cotton shirt to sit in my drawer (forest green this year; previous have been tan, orange, dark brown). I guess it helps when your main sponsor is an apparel company! Everyone gets a dog tag finisher medal, engraved with the year and race logo, and top 3 in age groups also receive a gold/silver/bronze larger dog tag which are presented at a proper awards ceremony on stage podium to "claim your glory", as the DJ says. First placers (myself and my girlfriend included!) also took home gift certificates for a free pair of Merrell shoes. Grade = A
OVERALL GRADE = A
