I registered for this event the night before it took place. The Running Zone staff were friendly and accommodating--even responded to my tweet right away after I found the race--and registration took no time at all. There was even a spare shirt in the right size for me (though there was an option to go without the shirt too). This race is part of a series Running Zone manages; they are the same people who bring you the Space Coast series. There wasn't an expo, but the store has a window and designated area for registration and packet pickup. Pre-race swag included a waterproof stuff box on a string (the kind you'd use for swimming to protect your ID), information about future races, and discounts and BOGOs for nearby businesses. I liked that what was included was relevant to the race; if I lived nearby, I would definitely have used the discounts and the race registration forms.

Access to the race was super easy, as it started/finished at a large outdoor shopping area. I was a little confused because I drove in on a route that had some of the race cones already set out, and I wasn't sure if they were for directing traffic. Fortunately everyone else seemed to have more clues, so I just followed them. There was more than enough parking for everyone who wanted to run, walk, volunteer, or watch.

The aid stations had water, and were well-stocked and attended. Everyone associated with this race was so freakin' friendly! There were a lot of course volunteers directing traffic along the course, which was entirely paved and very flat. I found the course fairly scenic even though it was around a mall, because I live in California where everything is brown and crispy, while everything I ran past was lush and green. There were some ponds and Florida birds (egrets or some kind of water bird).

One fun aspect of this race: the start/finish line was lined with cheerleaders from the program the race supports. Since it was football-kickoff-themed, lots of people were wearing shirts from their favorite teams.

Post-race swag included a free Bondi Band for each runner, smoothie samples, and a veritable pizza buffet. There was also regular runner food (oranges, bagels, etc.). In addition to the post-race swag, downloads of the event photos are free. (Prints are available at a great discount.) The finish line had a party atmosphere, with the Running Zone mascot lizard hugging kids and such. I had to leave before the awards ceremony, but there was a band-shell type stage set up for that and for announcements.

Overall, I had a great time at this race. If I lived within driving distance--Orlando is only like an hour away--I'd be running all of the Running Zone races.

For more pictures, check out my blog review: http://www.trainwithbain.com/irunforpizza/