Thousands attend Good Life Halfsy despite below freezing temperatures in Lincoln

LINCOLN, Neb. (KLKN) — The Good Life Halfsy lived up to its name on Sunday, proving that a little Nebraska chill can’t cool the city’s running spirit.

Nearly 9,000 runners bundled up for the 13.1-mile trek, setting a new record for the most to sign up in the race’s history.

“I have about six layers on right now,” Chloe Pieper said. “It’s pretty chilly, my hands went a little numb. But otherwise, we’re staying pretty warm.”

The cold posed as a challenge for some runners, but it didn’t ruin the excitement.

“It’s a little cold right now, but otherwise I’m feeling pretty good,” said runner Logan Hake. “I think it’s a lot of the adrenaline right now but it’s my first one, so I have to have a little bit of excitement going into it.”

The route went through many different neighborhoods before finishing at the Railyard.

Families, friends and volunteers wrapped in blankets and lined the streets with posters, ringing bells and handing out high-fives.

“I’m super excited,” Hake said. “I always know the running community to be close-knit and supportive. So I’m really excited to be running with all 9,000 people. It’s going to be a lot of fun.”

And with high energy throughout the race, it’s clear the half-marathon was a success for the Good Life state.

“We’ve got our first timer here,” said Jeremy. “Bucket list. We’re here to support, just for fun. Despite the cold, we’re wearing the tutus, dressing up, just here to have a good time.”

Pieper, who came to support her sister running the race, said it doesn’t compare to the energy at the Husker games, but it’s nice to see.

“It’s pretty cool that Nebraska can do this kind of thing, and all these people come to cheer them on,” Pieper said.