Packet pickup is a breeze and very well organized and staffed. Not really much of an expo, but you can be some last-minute things you may have forgotten at home, i.e. Glidestick, energy chews, gels, headbands, etc.

Race begins in the Goodyear Proving Grounds, which is a track where Goodyear tests its new tires. Starting corral is more than adequate in size and clearly marked. Tons of portopotties as well.

Tons of pacers there spanning a multitude of finishing times which is very nice. I happened to have the best Pacer (2:05) ever today (he had a solid game plan and knew exactly how best to attack the course).

Course weaves through and around the Goodyear plant for much of the race. Lots of views of factories which is neat as well as fields and trees. Latter parts of the course go through neighboring neighborhoods.

Lots of crowd support, which is always nice! Live music at several spots, loads of water stations with plenty of encouraging volunteers. The volunteers are always tremendous here - so many folks that you never have to wait for water.

Sufficient aid stations as well, and plenty of police there to ensure noone drives on the course or does anything crazy.

Finish line is good, and the medal was really cool yet again! Lots of well-stocked food and drinks, and volunteers there to ensure you have anything you'd want.

Parking is simple because you park in the Goodyear parking lots and garage, which is massive.

Another job well done by the race organizers and everyone in Akron!

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