Expo/Bib pick up- There were a couple of pick-up dates, but I went to the one at Road Runner Sports in Tempe. It was a little busy but the line moved quickly! They were very organized!

Race morning- Parking was easy, and is just steps from the start of the race. The race finished in a separate location however, so unless you have a ride back to your car I’d suggest perhaps scoping out some spots that are mid-distance between the start and finish a day prior to the race so you have a parking plan! There was an excellent energy at the start of the race, but there was no water, ANYWHERE. If you carry a pack you have have have to fill it up before you get there, otherwise you’ll have to wait until the first aid station to fill up.

The course- The course was BEAUTIFUL and SUPER FLAT!! A first portion of the race was on the road, the middle portion was in packed-dirt (not like a trail, it was still really firm), and the final portion of the race was back on the dirt, going THROUGH the Gilbert Days Parade! AMAZING!! It was great for those last few miles to have THOUSANDS of people cheering you on! I thought we would only be in a small portion of the race, but you essentially run alongside the ENTIRE THING! This was definitely the coolest race experience I’ve ever had!

Aid stations- Really well dispersed and some local high schoolers run them so there’s a lot of cheering and energy!

Finish- By far the best finish EVER! After getting that extra motivation from the parade-watchers you are immediately able to disburse from the course (there’s no long trail of corrals or anything) and go meet up with your loved ones!

Bling- Super fun, cute orange medal! This race also came with a PERFECT dry-tech long sleeve race tee!