Expo/Packet Pick up: I drove down from MA, so I went on Thursday afternoon to avoid traffic. There was no line to get in at 2:00 which was sweet! It was very quick and easy to get my bib and t-shirt, also no lines. I like the women's cut t-shirt and design. There were several fun locations to take free photos at Brooks, Toyota, Geiko and more. We stopped by the Toyota location inside to make a fun Video which I actually seen while running, super cool. They also personalized my shirt, and gave me a pair of flip flops when I showed my Toyota car keys :)
On the way out I test drove the Toyota Rav4 and received a $10 Gift Certificate for Starbucks. This time I didn't need to buy anything, but if you needed anything it was there. They also had an extra sale on clothing due to the low temps.

Pre-race: Due to the fact the marathon starts at 7am, and the Metro wasn't open, I had my Dad drop me off a block from the start at 6:15am which was super easy, and not much traffic at all at that time. OMG! Cold wind chill at 6:15am, but beautiful sunrise. It was a sweet treat to see Dunkin Donuts there giving away free hot coffee samples. There was also tables with bottle water and bananas. There were lots of porta-johns with minimal wait time. UPS was there for another no line gear drop off. They did have Corrals and Pacers, which seemed to go very smoothly.

Course: Start line was busy but didn't seem over congested at all. I was surprised all the bands were out in the cold, as there were not many spectators. They had amazing volunteers at the aid stations. There was plenty of water, gatorade, gu, blocks, sports beans etc.. throughout the course. The neighborhoods were very friendly and supportive near the end, some handed out donuts, fruit, and even a location with champagne and whiskey :)

Post Race: I have to admit, I was so cold when I finished I couldn't stop shivering. I did change into dry clothes in the women's changing tent (which was a nice perk). They did hand out sweet medals, heat sheets, water and gatorade. UPS was right there with another no wait wait. The post food was pop chips, choc. milk, granola bars, and bananas. I was actually too cold to take off my gloves and eat or get my free beer. They also had food trucks there with Pizza, sandwiches and more. Of course, the post concert which was good. I walked over to the finishers tent to pick up my Marathon Finishers jacket which was awesome! I only wish the weather was warmer so friends and I could have hung out and had some cold brew, but I just wanted to get inside where it was warm. I opted for taking the metro to Springfield/Franconia which was only steps away from the finish line, which made it super easy.

I highly recommend this race! I'll be back next year, sign up now for best prices. I'm also registered for the Rock and Roll Nashville Half Marathon, and now even more excited.