I completed MCM in 2005 and decided to take the challenge again in 2013. It is an amazing race showcasing all of the best sites of the Nation's Capital! You start in the dawn hours to the sights of paratroopers bearing the flag and a full gamut of Marines directing you every step of the way. You head away from the Pentagon and away from Virginia into Georgetown where the party will be rocking at 8am. Next you traipse into Rock Creek Park for stunning views and just enough climbing to remind your legs to work. You head back into town and get to see some of DC's best historic sites-the Lincoln Memorial, the Smithsonians and the Washington Monument. You'll round past the Capitol with only 10 miles to go. The toughest part of the course is the 14th St. Bridge which is 2 miles of pure pain, but worth it to get to the crowds of Crystal City. You leave the crowds one more time for the home stretch past the Pentagon again. You finish up a hill with throngs of cheering Marines and fans and finish at the foot of the Iwo Jima Memorial.

The transportation can be a bit of a bugger, so plan to stay in Rosslyn and walk to the start (about a mile). Stay a few days and enjoy all that DC has to offer.

(This year's bib pickup was a complete disaster but knowing the Marines, they'll have it all fixed up for 2013.)