Race Day: The weather was COLD! But definitely got nicer as the day progressed. I really liked that the race started at 0700 rather than a later start time (I've been seeing 0900 start times recently to "allow for warmer running temps"...no thanks, I'll just wear another layer!). Big PROPS to the race organizers too. The starting line was great and the race started right on time! That's a big plus.

Parking: The race started/finished at the Navy-Marine Corps Stadium. There was plenty of parking.

Post-Race: Great festival and music following the race. They were serving warm chilli at the finish as well-much appreciated after running in temps below 30F.

Course: The course started out running through downtown Annapolis. What a view! It was relatively flat and fast through the first 5 miles or so. Then it headed out into some hills. Not the worst hills I've run, but best to be prepared. The hills continued through about mile 11 or so.

Course(part 2): Three "out and back" sections. While the course was generally beautiful, there were 3 sections that were out and back. One even had you run ACROSS the other runners going the other direction! Fortunately, I was able to see a spot and jet across the roadway, but I'm sure that was a disaster when there were crowds in both directions.

The second out and back had all the bigger hills.

Swag: The medal was nice and large with a great image of Annapolis. The race "shirts" or "premiums" could only be picked up in the runners tent following the race (a nice touch, really). They were long sleeve running jackets. I'll definitely be wearing this one as we move into the winter weather.

This was a great race and they gave a discount for military personnel. There were USNA Midshipmen throughout the course and as would be expected, they were shouting, "GO NAVY!" throughout to the runners. It was fun atmosphere and you just can't hardly beat the scenery of Annapolis. Definitely a great race and one I recommend to anyone that is in the Maryland area.

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