“Disclaimer: I received a free entry to the Rock ‘n’ Roll Philadelphia as part of being a BibRave Pro. Learn more about becoming a BibRave Pro (ambassador), and check out BibRave.com to review find and write race reviews!”

Expo/Packet pickup:
We got into Philly on Friday afternoon and settled into the hotel. The Philadephia convention center was only a short walk away. The pickup was by Bib# and if you didn’t remember or know your number there were computers set up to look it up. Once at the pickup counter you presented your ID off you went! Next was a trip around the corner where you picked up your finisher’s shirt. The design was much better this year than it was in 2016 when I last ran this.
I had fond memories of this expo. I remembered there being quite the large setup of a good variety of vendors and new gels and nutrition drinks to try. There were a few of these but nothing that really stood out this time. There was quite a bit of “dead space” around the convention center. I’m not sure if there were or not, but it just felt less populated this year. The best part was the shirts Rock ‘n’ Roll had made with all the runner’s names on them! Such a great idea! We had to get one…
Parking- I was in a local hotel so I didn’t have to worry about that. Many of the people I knew either booked a parking spot down town prior to the race or they took the train in if they stayed outside the city. With the street closures, navigating the city the day of the race was a bear as some reported.

Port-o-Potties: This was a large race. There were a lot of port-o-potties but there was definitely a of people waiting for them as well. I waited approximately 20 minutes in line before the race. But, it was still worth the wait. As a plus, along the course there seemed to always be enough and I never waited more than a couple minutes.

Aid Stations: Lots! And well staffed. The volunteers were very enthusiastic! They even had ice to chill down the water. It was a hot day – around 86°F at the end of the race.

The Course: Flat and fast! The best thing about Philly races is they are meant for speed! The crowd was super enthusiastic and cheered us all on. There were a few spots where you were alone, and this is where mental toughness comes into play.
There was a final climb toward the end of course and that was a great opportunity to dig deep and push right over the finish line!
Donned with our medal and approached by volunteers with cold wet towels - it was a warm one! There was water, Gatorade, and chocolate milk which was all very welcoming as well! And of course Philly Pretzels!

Overall, the Rock ‘n’ Roll Half Marathon Philadelphia was a great experience the second time around, despite sustaining my first race injury. A special shout out for the medical tents and their well-trained staff! My knee appreciates you! The course change kept it interesting and you still got the chance to enjoy the run down and back by the Schuykill River. The crowd’s enthusiasm definitely helped as well! I would definitely run this race again and would continue to recommend it to friends!