This was my first half marathon experience and I was totally pleased with the actual race and all the support along the course. Access to the starting line was easy with multiple metro access points. It also helped that I got on the metro from the 1st stop on the Orange line so I was guaranteed a seat, the train filled up quickly as we passed each additional stop. My corral was easy to find and the waves were started efficiently.

My one negative with this race was the expo. My friend and I went to the expo on Friday at noon and it was a total zoo. No direction on where to park near the expo (no staff showing cars where to go or signs). Once inside the expo it was okay I guess (in fairness this was my first experience with an expo) but I expected more vendors for running gear and different options. A lot of it was sponsors trying to get me to sign up for their products (like Geico, or some other insurance company). I did like that the company supplying gels for the race had a booth and we could test them out prior to the race.

As for the course, I thought it was set nicely starting at the National Mall and running past several monuments. The only real challenge with the course is around the National Zoo (Rock Creek Parkway) where the one large hill climb is (roughly around 6 miles in to the race). There were also plenty of supporters along the route cheering you on and keeping your spirits up. It was a good time reading at some of the funny signs they created.

I enjoyed the race so much I immediately signed up for the 2017 race hoping to beat my time from this year.