This was my 3rd year to run this race and the course was new this year. I had signed up the previous year at the expo so I got in at early bird rate. They also allowed online registration as well registration at the expo. The swag for this race is top notch, which is exactly what one would expect from a race of this caliber. I ran both the 5k and the half so I got two shirts, two medals from the race, and the remix medal for doing both races.
Pre-Race: There was plenty of email communications sent out before the race and I had opted for the VIP package so I also got plenty of communication regarding that as well. All items were to be picked up at the expo which was the most disappointing expo I had ever been to. I was beyond shocked at the lack of vendors and the size. I kept asking "is this it?". I bought two things. If you know me, that's very rare, I love stuff. Perhaps with the auto show going on next door, Rock n Roll had a limited amount of space to work with. There weren't any speakers like there normally are, it was just really missing a lot of the hype one would want before running a rock n roll race. I had more fun at the auto show booths.
Race Day: It was cold, but I was okay, this is why I buy the VIP package. It was right by the start line and had a small breakfast,private gear check, as well as close private parking. Being in one of the last corrals I was able to leave my warm clothes on and stuff them in my bag at the last minute and head out with no issues. There were corrals and it was indicated by ether the first or first two numbers of your bibs. I didn't notice any security or anyone checking, with the exception of the Ryan Hall corral, so you could really squeeze in anywhere.
Course: I love running in Dallas and this race hit all of the major points in Dallas, Deep Ellum, Kessler Park, Bishop Arts district, Trinity Groves, and the Hunthill bridge. it was a beautiful course with the exception Riverfront Blvd. where there was lots of construction on the road creating a long stretch of uneven pavement. The course was also very hilly, the climb up to the hunthill bridge was never ending, and the hill at around nine at kessler park left many runners unhappy. But nonetheless, it was gorgeous.
Post Race: In true rock n roll fashion they did have a good post race party with music, chocolate milk, water, potato chips (my fav), selfie opportunities and a free beer. I personally went back to VIP and stuffed my face with all the food and gatorade.
Overall: I do like this race and I do find it fun to do with friends so that you can all hang out together and exchange stories. I was fortunate to also meet some other awesome runners at our table in the VIP area and we laughed and joke about the craziness of the mile nine hill, and the never ending mile 12. It was a good time.