This was my first time running the National Interstate 8k Akron Marathon race installment. I was a last minute entry and felt that the communication provided by Race Management leading up to the event was fantastic. I have run in other races from the Akron Marathon race series so the emails leading up, ultimately had me registering.
The event hosts two different race lengths being the 8k & 1 mile race, which is run in downtown Akron, OH on the campus of Akron University. The start is just outside the InfoCision Stadium, with the finish being on the 50 yard line. The post race party was fabulous and provided various local breweries and root beer. The 8k was a new distance for me and would definitely recommend this race to those in the future.

Expo: There is no expo for this event. Packet pick-up is offered all day the day before the race and once again beginning at 7am on race day.
Swag: Included with your race entry you receive a race t-shirt, pint glass and medal for completing the race. The medal itself can serve as a bottle opener. In addition to your entry you receive three drink tickets to enjoy at the post race party, a banana and Chick-fil-a sandwich! SCORE!
Aid Stations: There were two aid stations on the course and to be honest I didn't even realize them. With the distance being only 5 miles, I ran right past them.
Course Scenery: The typical scenery one can expect when running through the city. I have run this route in other races so I was familiar with what to expect. Not much crowd support out on the course, but for those out there it was appreciated.
Elevation Difficulty: The overall elevation gain over 5 miles was 220 ft. I definitely did not expect that and overall my performance was affected as I started out and race this way too fast. The hills that were on the course were gradually climbing.
Parking/Access: Free, close parking is always a win!
Race Management: Exceptional and what I have learned to expect from the Akron Race Series group. Knew exactly where to be and when. The announcements pre race could be heard across the venue.