This is my second year participating in an Iron Girl event here in Clearwater. Last year I did the half, this year the 5K. I enjoyed it tremendously.

Packet Pickup was fine- it was at a running store at a local mall. The lines were long and the space was hot and tight, but I was able to get out in about 20 minutes. I think if I was running the half, my wait would have been longer (there were two separate lines based on distance).

Parking was okay- race directors sent out a City of Clearwater parking map beforehand letting people know where they could park. I knew that the parking closest to the event would fill up the fastest, but still managed to luck out and snag the last parking spot just steps away from the start line.

Bling- was adorable. With images of sea turtles, bridges, dolphins, palm trees and a removable charm that you could add to a necklace or bracelet- what's not to love?

T-Shirt- Was perfect this year! Last year, there was a dreadful maroon colored v-neck shirt and I think people let them know how much they hated it. They gave out racerback tanks this year (and for the 5K the option of a white tee) and they were awesome. They held a vote allowing runners to choose what image and saying would go on the tank. "We Run This Bridge" won (runners go over the bridges in Clearwater) and I love it. This is the first time I've ever gotten a tank from a race.

The course- was beautiful! You run along the bay when you go over the bridge with the Clearwater skyline in your view. Be prepared for that incline as you run up, up, up on the bridge. Trust me, you'll feel stronger for having conquered them.

Aid Stations- Gatorade and water were available at the aid stations. I will say, though, that the water was warm this year and I think it caught some people off guard. I didn't mind. Water is water.

Photographs- The photographers weren't very visible to me during the race. I only mention this for those who enjoy getting their race photos taken. I saw one photographer on the course and the one at the finish line.

Finish Line- This year, Outback Steakhouse was the sponsor. Outback also owns Carrabba's and Bonefish Grill, so I'm sure the food was to die for. I wasn't too keen on eating a full on meal at 7:40 am, so I passed on that. There were volunteers handing out water, plenty of vendors, and free 5 minute massages on site, which was nice.

I love being a part of a women's only race. Since this was where I ran my first half, it was bittersweet to come back to the start. I look forward to running with them next year if I can.