Rock 'n' Roll Arizona

Rock 'n' Roll Arizona

Rock 'n' Roll Arizona

( 47 reviews )
100% of reviewers recommend this race
  • Phoenix,
    Arizona,
    United States
  • January
  • 13.1 miles/Half Marathon, 26.2 miles/Marathon, Relay, Other
  • Road Race
  • Event Website

A B

Arizona, United States
28 32
2017
"Arizona Rocks"
Overall
T-Shirts/SWAG
Aid Stations
Course Scenery
Expo Quality
Elevation Difficulty
Parking/Access
Race Management
A B's thoughts:

This race marked the one year anniversary of running for me. I can't believe it's already been a year, while I can't believe it's only been a year, if that makes sense. So, now that I am a bit more versed, I can express myself a little better...

Packet pickup was smooth, as usual. I think I waited about 5 minutes total between the 5k and marathon lines. I really appreciated all of the volunteers. Parking wasn't bad on Friday, as I found a meter that cost me a buck for the hour.

As I entered the expo, I was able to find the Tourpass booth quickly, and so I picked up my pass for the year WOO HOO. I started to walk through all the vendors (I love this part), however there was no Nuun and no Glukos. I was soon sad, because I count on Glukos to get me through long runs. Luckily I had ordered some, but I was hoping to buy a box for a friend at the expo, as they always have a deal. I was surprised at some new vendors this time, specifically some dog food and treat brands. I don't own a pet, so hadn't really expected this to be a thing... but they were busy! There was no ProCompression this time, but there was a CEP booth with a 50% off rack, so that was cool. Without all my favorite stuff, I left without breaking the bank.

Saturday morning was the 5k, and parking was a breeze. There were a few choices, but I took the garage close to the start line because I'm lazy. The music was lively and the crowd was large. Getting to the corral was easy, and the race announcer kept people fired up. After an amazing national anthem, we were off and running. What I appreciate here is that the start was very wide and we weren't tripping over each other. I was using this rave as a shakeout for the marathon, and I was able to keep to the right without interfering with other runners. The course was typical for a Tempe 5k with a couple of turns, along the river, and over the bridge. The finish was fun and energetic, and the volunteers were amazing. I didn't hang out long after, but the party definitely kept going (yep, gave away my beer ticket again).

Sunday was marathon day. I have to admit I don't like starting lines that aren't near the finish... like not even close to the finish... Rock N Roll does a great job of lining up the start and finish along the light rail so transportation is relatively easy, but I just don't want to be bothered after a marathon. I want to get to my car and go home. At the start, parking was easy using the directions on the website (however, I saw several half marathoners in a panic realizing they were in the wrong place). It was also free for the first 1500 runners. There was plenty of space within corrals to stretch and prepare to run, and the streets were wide so there was no congestion. The race course is a bit coring as you leave downtown and race towards Camelback Mountain, but there are some quaint shops and buildings. The jog along Indian School is a long but gradual hill, but the residents are awesome and energetic. There were even a couple of margarita tables set up for Arizona!

Finally, you make your way to Tempe and the Salt River. After swooping over the bridge, you finish at Tempe Beach Park, and the music is pumping. I was well over five hours this year (I got to stay on the course longer for my money) and the crowd was still cheering. Bands were playing at the finish and along the course. High school clubs, cheer, and bands were volunteering their time. It really is a great time, and I was reminded why I love running so much- I saw a man run off course to bring a homeless guy cash. I saw someone pick up a fallen runner. A million thank you's to officers and volunteers. It's a community coming together while people push their mental and physical limits, and it's just fun to be a part of. Search for the story of the 73 year old grandfather who had help finishing the half. And check out the sweet medals ;-) See you next year!

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