While I’ve enjoyed running two in-person (IRL) Hot Chocolate races in Atlanta in previous years (both the 5K and 15K), this was my first VIRTUAL Hot Chocolate race!

Yes, I’ve done many virtual races these past 12 months – as many of us have! And, sure, I miss IRL races, but I completely enjoyed this 15K!

PRO'S:
One thing in particular I appreciated was that I received ALL the gear BEFORE race day. I registered about six weeks prior, and had all the goods at least a week before race day arrived. The race website also lets you know how far in advance you need to register in order to have your swag before the big day. Sweet!

Personally, I like to finish my race WITH A MEDAL shortly thereafter! Nothing like a post race pix with bling in hand to make the race feel complete. And, having a real bib (versus one I had to print) was a nice touch! The gear the HC folks provide is always great quality; loving my hooded (removable) jacket that doesn’t have 20 sponsors (none, in fact!) listed on the back.

CON:
You get the chocolate before the race, and it's hard not to eat it before race day! ;) I must admit I ate all the chocolate provided BEFORE the race, but had enough self-control to wait until post-race to consume the hot chocolate. Yes, with whipped cream.

More PRO's:
I chose to run my race near the Chattahoochee National Recreation Center. The first third was very hilly, and the remainder was much flatter. I then had a socially distanced coffee with friends post race to celebrate, and take some medal pix. It was a great morning!

I’ve run 12 virtual races in the past 11 months – even a marathon! I actually ran my fastest half marathon ever during a virtual race, too. The point is that while we all enjoy and crave in-person (IRL) races, virtual races certainly have many benefits. I for one know my training and fitness would suffer if I was not working towards some goals and races.

Isn't it great that you can pick the date, course, time that you run? Flexibility to fit your schedule, your needs. A few other benefits: no standing/shivering in corrals, or waiting for the porta-potty with a virtual race. It also makes you more self-sufficient, and a more knowledgeable runner, as you have to provide your own nutrition/hydration on course. There is much value in that!