For "just" a 5k, this race felt extra special and was much more fun than the average weekend 5k. I loved that the packet pickup was at a fun restaurant/bar the night before, it really set the tone for the weekend. The course was flat with the exception of a quick over and back hill - it's steep, but over quickly. The rest of the course was pancake flat in a park near the San Diego harbor. The atmosphere at this race, both during the race and afterwards at the party, was extremely fun! Great vendors, awesome Stella Artois beer garden, a make-your-own infused water station, and gourmet meals to try make this race stand out from the rest. There were also cooking and live fitness demos/group exercise. We ate so much free food afterwards, my husband and I were stuffed for the rest of the day! There are no shirts, but honestly, that's ok! I'd rather have the food, beer, and adorable medal - last year it was a cute pineapple and this year will be an avocado medal. Perfect, right? I'm looking forward to this year's race on October 20, 2018 and will certainly be back for each year after!