Race venue: The race was very aptly named the weather being cold, wet, and windy. When the weather is like this, I just want to stay indoors for as long as possible before the race and get back to warmth quickly after. This race allows for that with everything except the race being in a recently-built community centre with a big sports court, clean washrooms, changing rooms, and showers.

The course: the race starts by Science World, which makes it one of the few Skytrain-accessible races out there. It goes along the Seawall path in the False Creek area towards Yaletown and then back. The benefit of running on the Seawall is that there are virtually no hills. The issue is that it can get crowded. Luckily, because this race is held in the winter, there were not too many pedestrians to avoid. There were a few runners and walkers from the race who did not think of keeping to the right or moving out of the way when hearing me approaching, though. I wish there was some sort of device that would shout “runner coming!” or “please step to the right” at the press of a button... Weaving through a few people was the only challenge I had during this race. The course was very professionally marked with cones for the various turns, km markers, and even signs indicating that we would soon have to turn around. The volunteers were also very supportive and helpful!

The snacks: we were spoiled for choice with the usual bagels and bananas, as well as brownies, crackers, clementines, and Nature’s Path Organic granola bars.

The awards: All finishers get a cute finisher medal and overall winners get additional awards. I thought it was great that they had a real podium for the awards ceremony. I believe it makes the experience that much more exciting and memorable for the top 3 finishers in each race.

The swag: this race normally includes socks, but bad weather meant they did not get delivered in time for the race. The race organizer had the good idea to give participants the option to donate their socks to the race’s partner charity instead of picking them up at a later date.

The charity: The Partner charity was the Lookout Society, which supports low income and homeless people in Vancouver. Runners could also donate more cash to the charity at the on-donation bag check. I was glad I always bring cash with me to races so that I could support this important cause.