"EXPO": There wasn't an official big expo but we were able to choose from 3 locations in Avalon to pick up our bibs the Friday and Saturday before race day: Athleta, Lululemon, or Road Runner Sports. The day prior to the race, they offered pilates and yoga for runners at Hotel Avalon. I chose Athleta. No coupons offered, but runners could use their bib for 20% off during bib pick up.

PARKING: The only complaint I have was race day parking was a nightmare, which delayed both races. Once we got to Avalon, it took about half an hour to park due to congestion, confusion, and waiting in line to get into a parking garage because they didn't allow parking in many surface areas (for safety reasons, which I understand).

Also, the half marathon and 5K didn't start at the same location but finished at Avalon. Half marathoners had to cross the street to their start line, but they had cops to assist the runners to safely cross. 5K runners started at Avalon. No port-a-potties for 5K runners, however we got to use a REAL restroom at Hotel Avalon (thank goodness).

5K COURSE: The 5K started fast because it was downhill but there were a couple of hills in mile 2. There was a HUGE hill in the final mile before we entered Avalon to the finish line. There was one water station about 1.5 miles into the 5K course.

SWAG: All participants received a free Athleta bag, a mini first aid kit, finishers medals that specified which race we ran, and a white tech short sleeve shirt.

Final thought, I liked that the race director honored a athlete who passed away this year from pancreatic cancer, we got purple bracelets at bib pick up and they spoke about her prior to the start of the race. We had a moment of silence for her. I loved that her husband and sons attended our race in her honor.

I hope to run this event next year!

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