This year I made the lottery and was able to finally run in the Philly 10K, which is rapidly becoming one of the most popular races in Philadelphia.

Instead of having an expo, the Philly 10K boasted its Bib Pickup Party, which took place on the Friday and Saturday before the race. You were able to pick up your race materials, grab grub from food trucks, purchase local Philly Brewing Co. beer for cheap, and buy lots and lots of Philly 10K swag - custom T-shirts, beer glasses, stickers, etc. A unique experience, but I wish we didn't have to pay $40 for a technical T-shirt.

Getting to the race, we were told that parking was impossible, so we were encouraged to get to the start by any means necessary. I used the bike share, which was really convenient. Others walked or took SEPTA from what I could tell. The race itself started on South Street and wound through South Philadelphia on narrow streets. It was really difficult to start at a good pace at the beginning because there were still cars on the road and there was nowhere to go...so that made the first 2 miles pretty unpleasant.

There was a decent amount of spectators along the way, but I would have appreciated more cheering. Thankfully the weather wasn't too hot and humid, and the course was supported by 3 water stations.

The course towards the end was a little loopy - it felt like we were going in circles to get to 6.2 miles before finally making a turn and running towards the finish line. I was SO happy to get a PR, finally finishing a 10K in under an hour, so it was very exciting!

After the race, it was very chaotic...there were massages, yoga sessions, lots of vendors, bananas, water, and a giant poster of the course which was nice but really awkward to schlep around. There was free custard from Shake Shack but by the time I got there they ran out. The beer tent was hopping but again, so crowded. Eventually I needed some space and decided to walk back home.

I'm glad I got to participate in this race! It was a lot of fun and definitely full of the Philly spirit! It reminded me of Broad Street Run's little sister. I do wish that the race was more affordable, or at least that you got a medal or a technical (instead of cotton) T-shirt. Philly Runner did a great job putting this race together.