Expo and packet pick-up
: super simple for this race... aka, no expo! Packet pick-up is held at Road Runner in Carytown and while there are a few reps there to chat about different gear and shoes, it's mainly just a walk in, pick up your packet, and leave sort of thing! You do get a coupon for 15% off an item though so that's pretty nice!

Accommodations and travel: This race is held right in the heart of Richmond, VA which plenty of places to stay!

Course: I'm a little biased towards this course because it's an area that I've run more times than I could possible count. You'll start in Carytown near Can Can and head down towards Boulevard, making a left before you get there and coming back up through Grove. It's then all the way down to Libbie and Patterson (with a monster hill right there on your turn) and then back down Patterson the entire way, ending back in Carytown. It's a road race and while there isn't anything remarkable about the scenery, it's a beautiful run through the streets of Richmond and the near West End.

Ease of the start line: This isn't a big race and so there isn't too much trouble getting to the start line and lining up according to pace (no technical corrals). Parking can sometimes be a bit of a pain, especially if the weather is pretty, as Carytown can fill up fairly quickly. There's plenty of free parking available but just make sure to plan accordingly as you may need a bit more time to find a space. I actually had an 11 miler scheduled for this day so I ran to the start line to get 5 miles in before the race, but if have to drive, it's not an issue! Like I said, no corrals, but line up and ease of the start line is simple and very smooth. Also plenty of porta-potties for all of us nervous pee-ers!

Swag: No major swag with this race. You'll get a nice technical tee but other than that it's just your bib! No finisher item or medal.

Post-race party: This is a small race and really more of a fun run in my opinion. There's not really a post-race party per se, but they do keep the parking lot beside Can Can open for relaxing, grabbing a banana and muffin and some water/gatorade... no post race beers!

All in all a super fun race and I nice change in pace from the insane crowds at the Monument 10K!