"Slow down and enjoy life. It's not only the scenery you miss by going too fast - you also miss the sense of where you are going and why."
~ Eddie Cantor ~

Race packet pick-up was in one of my favorite stores: REI. I arrived before line stretched to front entrance. Because it was later in th day, packet pickup line was longer than line for photos or get signings by The Oatmeal aka Matthew Inman. I applaud Inman for LONG days of meeting with fans for signings, photo ops, drawing Blerch-inspired cartoons upon request and running with us at the half marathon. The Oatmeal signed my bibs, Exploding Kittens game, refrigerator magnets and "Blerch" baseball cap (after the race), he said ''Eww, that's sweaty, gross" -- and gave it the magic Sharpie treatment. The Oatmeal remembered me from last year's race and at his fun run at Comic-Con San Diego.

I talked with several people who agree that The Oatmeal's humor is snarky and speaks on controversial topics that others are afraid to discuss publicly. Otherwise, he maintains a low profile. It works for The Oatmeal.

This race event was on roads and trails -- no dirt. We crossed a few bridges and the American River Parkway - BEAUTIFUL. Since this wasn't the Carnation, WA race, I didn't expect to see many costumed runners. Compared to last year's Carnation race, there were fewer Blerches and port-o-potties along the course. I did get a photo with Sasquatch before the race started.

The aid stations provided very cold water, Nuun, Nutella sammies and delicous marbled white cake with green frosting, bananas, potato chips and Gu.

Most of the volunteers were upbeat along with plenty of snacks at the aid stations. We finished inside Raley Field as each runners' name was announced and video of our finish line crossing displayed on the jumbotron.

At last year's Beat The Blerch Marathon, I met criteria to become a Marathon Maniac, now a Double Agent.
I enjoyed the inaugural Carnation race more than this Sacramento event. I would like to come back to participate in a different Sacramento race and stick with Beat The Blerch Carnation race in the future. Both cities, Carnation and Sacramento are good to visit and walk around to explore.

I recommend this race if you want to have a fun, laid-back race experience with friends that may not be into competitive running.