One of my favorite race. I have participated in the half (4 times) and marathon (1). This was my first marathon so I didn't have many expectation for a marathon as I never seen the back half. Overall it was a great experience. The Expo is a decent size and you are able to learn more about the race and events that lead to the race. In addition there are many different vendor anywhere from other races to race gear. The starting of the race has always been chaotic, there are corrals but they aren't managed effectively. Instead of having each corral wait a minute or so to clear out the runners they let everyone go so it gets crowded for the first several miles. With the old course we split around mile 8 so after that there isn't many runners around me so it was nice to spread out. I will say that there aren't much course support on the back half of the race except when getting to relay stops. I will say the support of the volunteers is great where ever you are in the race. Since I am a slower runner and finished around 6 hours there wasn't many finish line activity which was disappointed. Most vendors have packed up and left, I will say I was still able to get my burger from Carl's Jr and my finisher shirt. I was a little disappointed in the finisher shirt as the quality was lacking and has gotten worst in 2019. Definitely sign up early as they rarely have discount codes for the race.