Unfortunately my experience in 2018 was lackluster compared to previous years. The expo was drastically decreased in the number of vendors and the design of this year's apparel didn't appeal to me.

I took DART to the West End station and walked the short distance to the start line. The gear check in with UPS was run very smoothly and was an easy process, and there were more than enough porta potties. The start corrals were released seamlessly. The aid stations were well staffed with great volunteers! The live music on course was still present, but it now augmented by mile markers that project music. And no more shoe tags! The bibs have the tracker built in (woo hoo!). The course is challenging and presents some serious inclines that you need to be prepared for. The finisher's area was spread throughout Reunion Lawn and allowed runners to spread out. The medal design didn't appeal to me, and the post-race food was really bad - I expect more than cookies and Cheez-its from a Rock n Roll race.

Overall, I am still glad I ran the race but cannot give 2018 the glowing review I have in past years.