“Disclaimer: I received a free entry to the Chartway Norfolk Harbor Half Marathon as part of being a BibRave Pro. Learn more about becoming a BibRave Pro (ambassador), and check out BibRave.com to review find and write race reviews!”

Expo/Packet pickup:
The expo was held at the Half Moon Cruise and Celebration Center next to the Town Pointe Park. Bib pickup was super smooth and the *did* require ID, which I'm a huge fan of.

The expo wasn't huge but the J&A team was super nice as well as all of the volunteers. They even had Santa there which the kiddos loved.

RACE DAY:
Port-o-Potties: There were a good bit at the beginning of the race and the lines, though long, moved pretty quick! Thought the course there were some scattered downtown and thereafter there were 2 to 3 after each hydration station.

Aid Stations: There was an adequate amount of aid stations. Luckily, I didn't need them this time around!

The Course: FLAT and FAST! I've raced quite a bit in Philly and had thought they were pretty flat. Norfolk was super flat. Hardly any slight rises. The crowd was amazing! It wasn't a huge crowd but literally like 5 single person cheering squads and I could hear them cheering for blocks it seemed! There were a couple of areas of cheer squads along the way and these people were pumped with energy and were great to keep you pushing!

Post-Race Party: After crossing the finish line and getting the finishers medal (which had a bottle opener built in - nice touch!) you made your way through the canal, got a sweet camo finishers hat and draw string zipper bag and then out to the party! They had chili (excellent choice for a chilly day), beer and spiked seltzer for adult beverages, and live music! Such a good time and exactly what was needed after a great race!

Overall, the Chartway Norfolk Harbor Half Marathon was a great experience. Being back in the south made me remember how nice people can actually be. A nod of the head and saying good morning rarely happens on the streets back north. Almost everyone said good morning or hello as we passed. I think I'll be returning for more races below the Mason Dixon line.