I ran this race last year (its inaugural run) and I have to say it ran much more smoothly this year.

Leading up to the race, there was still good race communication and weekly training plans. I had hoped to make this a weekend girls getaway like last year, but my friend backed out and I was left to go solo. It still makes for a great racecation!

I adjusted my plans to come to town just for one night (from Phoenix so it's easy). Packet pickup was at the Linq again. I still did not see any signage for the expo. If I hadn't done it last year, it would have been very hard to find. I was happy to see that once I got to the room, it was actually kind of busy! Unlike last year which was a ghost town. This had good music, actual vendors, a couple of backdrops for photos, a mascot, race route info, hot chocolate and chocolate dipped cookies. Volunteers were quick and efficient with handing everything out. There is no race day pickup.

The 5k folks started at 715am and the 15k runners started at 8. This year, they were much more organized. It started on time, the announcer did a great job with the crowd and even had a Ronald McDonald House family speak just before the race started. Some of the proceeds support Ronald McDonald House charities. The group seemed a tiny bit bigger than last year, but still quite small, compared to other hot chocolate cities.

The route is not much to look at. We're on the Las Vegas Strip for maybe a block and then we head out onto some very uninspiring highway roads. At least there are some mountain views to look at. There was plenty of water and Nuun hydration on course. I only saw one sweet station - marshmallows - maybe I missed seeing m&ms this year. Basically an out and back course, with a few detours.

Finish line - there were our cool chocolate bar medals and the famous chocolate finishers mugs with dippers. My only real complaint about the finish area is that they desperately need seating - or highboy tables. Nobody wants to eat on the ground, especially after running all that way. I hope they take it into consideration for next year! They did offer free digital finisher photos, that is always a nice perk.

Overall, I love coming to this race, as it is an excuse to come to Vegas. However, if you are expecting the typical Hot Chocolate experience like in other cities with large crowds and a bustling atmosphere, this is not it! It is still worthwhile, and I hope it continues to grow.