This is my third time running the March to Get Screened 5K Run/Walk. While I don't love beach runs, the cause of colon cancer awareness is way too important to ignore, and this year, that cause hits just a little closer to home so I didn't want to miss it. Even though I had run 15K's worth of races the day before, this had a nice, late 9AM start, so I figured it would all work out.

Things changed a little this year - the run was mostly an out and back, but the start and finish line were in two different locations. Everything was clearly marked and easy to navigate.

T-SHIRTS/SWAG
Registrants received a really soft cotton t-shirt, a MTGS string bag, and for the first time, a medal (which was really beautifully done). I don't think that medals are necessary for these kinds of charity runs, but the quality was great and it was a nice touch.

AID STATIONS
There was a water stop at the halfway point and another water table set up after the finish line. There were also extra garbage cans set up at the midpoint stop, just because of the wind. They asked for runners to please make every effort to get the cups in the garbage so as not to litter on the beach.

COURSE SCENERY
I mean, you really can't beat running alongside the Atlantic Ocean in early spring.

EXPO QUALITY
No expo, really. Packet pickup was at select 1st Place Sports stores on Thursday and Friday, or on site on Sunday. Pickup was a little hectic, but we got everything quickly and moved on. There were a few vendors tables out, and then people handing out blue beads, sunglasses, leis and bubbles. They had blue hair spray and tattoos. There was also a face painter and a balloon artist for the kids.

ELEVATION DIFFICULTY
The run/walk is at low tide, and the packed and actually felt really good on the way out. Coming back, there was a little bit on unevenness, which was intensified because we were running into the wind. At the finish line, the sand was really churned up, which meant you just had to stay alert and watch your footing.

PARKING/ACCESS
Public lots are located around the SeaWalk Pavilion area. The earlier you arrive, the closer your parking spot. It's a small event, so I don't think anyone really had any difficulties.

RACE MANAGEMENT
Everything was great. Sufficient portapotties, nice course, wonderful volunteers. There was an after party with live music at the Irish pub across the street from the pavilion, although we didn't partake this year. In the past it's been a very nice vibe.

Love this event and was glad we could wear blue for colon cancer awareness this year. It's always such an inspiring field, and I was so touched by the teams who were out there running for their loved ones and friends.