I've ran in this race for the past three years and each time it gets better. While the race commemorates a somber event and the sacrifice of a particular NYC firefighter that fateful day, the energy, enthusiasm, and atmosphere from fellow runners and walkers cannot be denied. This is one event I always look forward to doing.

A few years ago, the Tunnel To Towers SC Foundation reversed the course, much to the enjoyment of the casual runner. In the race itself, you may be surrounded by several University of South Carolina ROTC running groups who are moving in formation and loudly singing their cadences. Strollers and walkers do line up at the end of the line of the starting line, so if you are even moderately fast, I suggest moving up closer to the starting line.
You start the course at the Convention Center and with a very small distance go do an incline, but once you turn onto Gervais Street, you are running downhill for the entire first mile. Along the way, you are greeted by spectators, shop owners, and early party goers. The second mile is mostly flat except at the last quarter mile which pushes you into an uphill battle. However, this year, there was a fire engine flying the flag and cheering everyone on. The start of the third mile has you going over a bridge and there was a biker group holding various flags cheering on all the runners. Once you go past the bridge a bit, you come to two uphills, one being a bridge you have to cross and the final uphill leads you back to the Convention Center (but it's much better uphill than running up Gervais Street, trust me).

The after party included a live band, food provided by Sysco with burgers, hot dogs, chips, fruit, and several drinks. Several organizations volunteer to help make this event great and it showed.

As for parking, there are several garages near the convention center and parking is free on adjacent streets after 6 PM, but you have to be quick to get them since so many people are either working this event or running/walking in it.

Here's a link to what the race looks like: https://youtu.be/ZpDEYehC4co
Definitely one worth doing if you live in or near Columbia.