Overall
Hard to believe that this was an inaugural race! Very well organized, excellent social media presence, scenic course, quick results – nothing bad that I can think of!

Packet Pickup/Expo
Packet pickup was held on Friday night and Saturday afternoon at the Running Room. Quick and friendly, with some of the excellent volunteers on hand. No expo for this race.

T-Shirt/Swag
The VanRace t-shirt was really nice, but had to be purchased separate from registration. I do not need more t-shirts, so I didn’t get one. We did, however, get jelly beans in our swag bag!

Lovely, unique medal – a little small, but honestly that’s just an observation, not a complaint!

Course
The 15k route was an out-and-back along the Seawall. From Charleston Park (not too far from Granville Island), it loops around False Creek, past Science World and Yaletown, under Granville and Burrard Bridges, as far as English Bay. Then we head back the way we came! The Seawall is one of the jewels of Vancouver, and this early on a Sunday it wasn’t too packed with local dog walkers! Flat and fast!

Aid Stations
There were several aid stations with very enthusiastic volunteers. They had Northstar and water. I partook of just two. But I knew I had the support if I needed it!

Post-Race
Good selection of food – water, oranges, bananas, yoghurt, granola bars, baked good/sweets, Terra Bread, and Starbucks coffee! I stayed for the awards ceremonies for both 15 and 30K, but didn’t win anything.

Race Management
As mentioned above, it’s hard to believe this was the first year of the VanRace. They did a bang-up job. Nice and small, well organized, friendly, good communication – and FUN! Maybe I’ll tackle the 30k next year?

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