This is my 2nd year in a row doing the relay. We stay at the Hilton downtown where everything is in walking distance. We were granted late checkout time of 1pm which cut it very close. Our first leg did not get over the start line until nearly 30 minutes after the race started as this is a very big race, like 40,000. Last year I did the 2nd leg-beautiful, but extremely difficult. This year I did the 4th leg and I thought it was also very pretty. The majority of this leg is downhill with a few slight inclines. They moved the finish line this year, and it was blazing hot, no shade at the finish anymore. There did not seem to be as food at the finish this year. Free pizza and beer though. you can really tell how well a race is organized on how they treat the back half of the marathon and this race absolutely takes great care in LOTS of aid stations, water stops, gels, and food along the course. They made sure to make up for the heat by having ice cube stations, and cold, wet towels along the course. Shuttles offered to your leg, lots of porta potties and food at the relay check. My only complaint here is the relay calls. I heard my number called so I jumped out for my teammate and I could not find her. It was too crowded and we lost a few minutes because of it.
Flying Pig has one of my favorite expo events. SO many vendors, race sponsored gear, and swag. Last year was a backpack I use frequently and this year was an outdoor blanket that I am already getting great use out of with the nice weather. With 30 minutes left on Saturday they announced all race gear was 50% off so we stocked up. The only issue this year is they changed shirt vendors, and the shirts fit pretty large.