Expo: packet pickup was at Dicks Sporting Goods. There was no signage until you got upstairs, and then they had signs with arrows. Tech shirt was nice and bibs were bright. No extra swag to speak of.
Parking was plentiful since it started and ended at a mall.
There were porta potties at the start and the line moved quickly. Not many on course though, although I never needed one.
The start was very organized with 10k runners and Half runners starting separately.
Both distances ran together for 3 miles and then we separated. signage was great, everyone knew right where to go!
The course was very hilly! At around mile 9, we left the road to run through some paved trail roads and gravel. This just about killed me and the last 3 miles were rough. Police and aid stations were on point throughout and I never felt unsafe or thirsty!
The finish was well marked. I finished just under the time limit and was given a medal plus one extra for my running buddy. There was water at the finish and oranges but no other food and the beer was all gone as well. I don't remember a band either, but this is common at Charlotte races, they tend to pack up early.
I really enjoyed the race, overall it was well run, and I would run it again, if only to conquer those crazy hills!