This year's race was a morning race (I understand in the past it has been at night.) I have seen ads for this race series, but never did one until this year. I signed up online and showed up a bit too early to pick up my packet--but I had my pick of parking! Packet pickup was swift, and there was basically no line. There was plenty of time afterwards to walk over to the farmer's market and Starbucks pre-race, and then wander back over to the starting line. (Hence five starts for parking/access. It looked like everyone who wanted to park immediately next to the race start was able to do so. Lots of people carpooled.)

There wasn't a wave start, but people did sort of group themselves (speed demons in front), slowpokes in the back. While the race is mostly women, there were a few men there (including some costumed to look like women). It seemed like the race took care of all different speeds, and I saw plenty of runners pushing strollers, skinny chick runners, walkers, runners with children, and all other types. I ran intervals (not fast ones) and finished mid-to-late-pack.

Swag: the long sleeve shirts are the right amount of stretchy. While the shirt doesn't have the city and date on it, it also isn't covered in sponsor ads. I love the color (light blue) and fit, and have actually worn this shirt multiple times since the race (a rarity, since I have A LOT of race shirts). The medal also features the race logo, and a nice ribbon. It's not the fanciest, but it was cute enough. Post-race, everyone scored two cosmos, one each of two different flavors, and a Cosmo Run stemless wine glass (yes, glass, not plastic).

Aid stations: plenty of water and people. Also on course, plenty of people to help with the few street crossings and sections where it might have been easy to choose your own course.

Course scenery: August in Vancouver and lovely weather. The race started near the river, and passed by Esther Short Park (not RIGHT next to it, due to the farmer's market), past public art, through part of Fort Vancouver, and alongside the river. The course was mostly a loop, with a small portion that was out-and-back, and largely paved.

Elevation: I only give the elevation 1 star if the course is flatter than a pancake. This course didn't have any real hills, but there was a small climb from (what I think of as) the back end of Fort Vancouver, through the park, and up to the road. If you run but never run hills, you'd still be fine.

Party! After the finish line, there's a party! In addition to the Cosmos there are some race snacks, and there were a few vendors as well. The park has a sort of amphitheater, and there was a live band! Or actually, I lied, I think it was a DJ. Anyway, it was great dance music, and at some point I joined a conga line with my cosmo! There were awards for the fast people, and while I clapped for them, I have to admit I have no idea what they won...but a good time was had by all.

Overall, this was a very low-key race with a fun atmosphere. I would totally do this race again.