In February, I ran the Run Oak Island 5K in Oak Island, NC. Although I ran the 5K, the race also offered a half and full marathon. It is a part of the BAM (Big Ass Medals) series, which includes three other races on the NC coast. This was my first time running a race in that series, and I was very impressed. The medals and swag are great- the medals are beautiful, and even the 5K has a finisher's medal. The 5K finisher's medal is not as big as the half marathon, but it is better and more colorful than many of my marathon medals. The shirts are colorful and soft cotton.

The 5K course itself was great- fairly no frills, but we had two aid stations. It was well marked and had plenty of volunteers. The starting times were staggered that people did not run into each other, which I liked, and all the races started on time. The after party had pizza and barbeque for refreshments, along with post-race beer.

This race was on President's Day weekend, and with many people having that Monday off work, it's a great destination race to visit North Carolina for. The weather during that time of year is perfect for a half or full marathon and great if you are coming from a colder climate and want a break from the weather.