I believe this was the inaugural event in Kemah, Texas but it did not disappoint! Packet pick up with intimate but it was very well run! Local races in the area usually have super nice volunteers and this one was no different! I checked in and picked up my goody bag with my t-shirt and race day instructions. Because this race aims to raise funds for an awesome cause, they did not provide timing chips. A clock was set at the start and finish line so you could see the gun time if you wanted to check your time.

The course made a loop with started and ended at the Kemah Boardwalk. The crowd was a good size and parking was close and free! Seriously, Kemah looks out for their visitors. I had no issue finding parking and it was literally steps away from the starting line. There was a Starbucks open nearby where many people grabbed a cup of coffee or used their bathroom. The facilities in the boardwalk were also open so there was no lack of places to go!

The streets were completely blocked off for runners and walkers. There were friendly Kemah police officers at every intersection and helpful volunteers at the water stop and turn around point. Most of the course runs through a neighborhood and it’s an out and back course. There were signs at every mile and a great group of runners and walkers alike!

After the finish, there were many volunteers handing us water and snacks! The title sponsors USAA also handed out neat reusable water bottles too! Another thing that stands out about the DAV 5K is that only veterans and servicemen get medals. I think that’s really neat because that’s what the race is about! We are there to honor them and it was super sweet to see vets get their medals.

The atmosphere was great, the weather was on our side, and the race organization was absolutely amazing! I truly hope they have this race again next year because I will tell all of my friends and I will definitely be back!