I know, this race is really expensive. But I can't even begin to imagine how much permits must cost to shut down the strip for several hours, so keep that in mind.

Tip: I recommend staying near MGM Grand/NYNY. They are about halfway between the start and finish, and not congested at the end. Very easy to get back to your room once you get out of the humongous finisher chute!

The course itself is nothing short of awesome. You start going south on the strip, past the Vegas sign and down to the end of the airport. Once you turn around, all of Vegas is in front of you. Since the race takes place at night, it's pretty spectacular. The course turns around over in old Las Vegas (Fremont Street). Some parts between miles 8 and 9 are pretty dark, but once you get back on the Strip, it's fine. The area is policed very well, and I felt very safe. The bands were actually pretty good, and the aid stations were well-staffed.

The shirt and medal are so great. The design on both are excellent, and the medal even glows in the dark. The finisher's chute is seriously enormous, and kind of a pain to get through just to get back to your hotel. But, if you follow my tip and stay at the south end of the Strip, it's no problem!

I hope to see you all there in 2014!