I went to Newport News as a fun girls getaway weekend with Angie and Christine. Newport News is a cute little town with LOTS of friendly people. There's also lots of historical sites nearby so there's plenty to do otherwise you can just relax for your race.

Packet pickup was super easy at the expo which was small but had a lot of running gear to browse. You could even get a massage or your gait analyzed.

Pasta party had delicious food with a nice program that included a few marathon runners. They also gave us a nice look at the programs going on for the community surrounding the races. I really enjoyed hearing and seeing about that.

Race day logistics were easy especially if you stayed at a partner hotel which by the way gave an early runner's breakfast and late checkout. There was a shuttle that picked us up and took us to the start, they were also available to take us back after however we had a friend with a car supporting us.

The course is super flat as advertised. I wasn't trying to race on this particular day but this course would be AWESOME to try for a BQ. It's point to point which I really enjoyed different scenery throughout the race. There were a few sections even on paved trails through parks which I really loved. Other sights included some historical areas, coastal areas and a college campus. The small community really comes out and are very passionate about this event. The spectators made sure they cheered for each runner. Some in the second half even had their own aid for runners which of course I took advantage of (beer, coke, fruit) :-) All the aid stations were WELL STOCKED and also more than WELL STAFFED. All the volunteers had smiles on their faces and many words of encouragement. It was really nice to go through the aid stations.

The finish is through this beautiful arch which is really quite a great way to finish. The medal was big, beautiful and heavy. We were given water and food immediately. There was even a throwaway type finisher's jacket. A cool alternative to the awkward heat sheets.

Right behind the arch is a beautiful park on the water which is where the One City Celebration happens. It was awesome with a huge stage with live music, beer, food, fun stuff for the kids, recovery stuff for runners. I was there for 2 hours waiting for my friends by myself and I had a great time. All runners received 2 tickets for 2 free beers and 1 food truck ticket. Seriously the only negative comment I have is less bud light/michelob ultra, more shock top!! HAHA Honestly, I had a great time the whole weekend, I would go back in a heartbeat.

Check out my blog post here: http://runningmarathonmom.blogspot.com/2016/03/one-city-marathon.html