This year was my 9th time running the broad street run. I ran my first one all the way back in 2001 and then ran it again in 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006 and 2008. I then took a long break from it (10 years!) and ran again in 2018 because I won a free bib and finally did it again this year! The race has changed a bit since the early days... back then there were definitely not as many runners as there are now. It's insanely crowded but that can be a good thing. You will never, ever be lonely while running this race LOL!

EXPO: It's at the convention center and there are plenty of vendors, and space to walk around. You could spend a few hours there if you really wanted to. If you live near the train station you can take the train right there then walk upstairs- very convenient! Bib pick up was quick and painless.

RACE DAY: In the old days I would drive my car down to the finish and park then hop on the broad street line to the start, which is still a great option and a lot of people do that. Now I just have my husband drop me off a few blocks from the start and I walk up. It's VERY congested once you get to where the corrals are- so give yourself some extra time to get where you need to be. This course is FLAT and FAST and you get to see Philadelphia on foot- so very cool! There are spectators all along the way- so great energy flowing all over. Plenty of bathrooms.. and my favorite is when you are almost at the finish line.. you see the crowds and everyone screaming and it's just plain awesome! Back in the day you did not get a finishers medal but they have since changed that which makes me happy.. love my medals :) You also get a nice cotton t-shirt and food and water at the end, and a large area to hang with friends and family afterwards.

If you have not run this race I suggest you sign up- you will not be disappointed!!