This was my first time running this race, and have heard wonderful things about it. I registered knowing I was not going to race it, since I was running Blue Ridge Marathon the day before. I was visiting family in the area, and figured it would be a good post marathon shake out run, and a chance to see a few local friends.

Pacers Running store did a fantastic job promoting the race on social media and had a great phone app with all the information you needed. I went to the Alexandria location the weekend before for packet pick up and picked up a few items for 20% off, and the DC flag shirt. The goody bag had some wonderful coupons for local shops and restaurants. I like expos and packet pickups at running stores, since you have the chance to pick up items you may not have packed and the 20% off sale was a nice perk.

I drove up race morning from Stafford, Va and parked at the free lot on Eishenhower, and took the shuttle to the start. The start was at Mt. Vernon, George Washington Memorial Parkway. The location is beautiful, and they had a very enthusiastic announcer, which pumped us up. There was hot coffee, muffins and bananas for everyone. It was cold, and they handed out heat sheets which was a nice perk, since I've only received them post run before. There was plenty of port o johns, bag drop off, and free photos with NPS.

The race was a beautiful flat course along the water, and well stocked water stops with gatorade and water. The volunteers, runners and spectators were all so friendly and happy!

The post celebration at the park was beautiful and sunny! Which was a treat since it was forecast for rain. There was a beer garden, kids zone, vendors, goody box with salt and sweet samples.

I then took the post run shuttle back to my car, which was a 2.5 mile walk, and would have walked but needed to get back to the family. I have to say, with all the runners the logistics was so smooth. The busses were clean, quick and easy access. They actually had 3 locations to pick from. Free parking and shuttles really was a nice perk.

I now know why my VA friends rave about this race! It was so very well organized, fun and scenic! Put this race on your list, I highly recommend it.