Expo. Because my hotel was near the finish line, getting to the expo was no easy task. Brain surgery may have been easier. Three trains later, I arrived. The actual expo was fine. Crowded with lots going on. The official New Balance gear left much to be desired. I badly wanted a jacket but they ran small so the womens' large were all gone when I got there. The mediums were too small. So disappointed. The line to checkout was a PIA.

Race Day. I was anxious about making it out to Blackheath via train for the start but it was super easy. The train station was right across the street from my hotel so it took me literally 1 minute to get there. Boarding was seamless (and trains are FREE! on race day) and we got to Blackheath in 25 minutes or so. Like Boston, the London Marathon starts relatively late in the morning so fueling can be a challenge. Potty lines were outrageously long and slow moving. If it weren't for the Women's Urinals (what?!) I'd not have been able to go. Gear check was easy peasy.

Spectators: Amazing. Among the best in the world. No need to wear music because you won't hear it over the cheering. Loved the signs and crazy costumes. This is truly a street party.

The Course: I loved it. Similar to Boston again, it starts out in a far-flung hamlet and you run it in toward central London. It's fun to take in the sights and sounds of the various villages. Crossing the iconic Tower Bridge is nothing short of spectacular. From that point on the views get better and better. The views across the Thames of Big Ben, Parliament, etc are amazing. Making that final turn in front of Buckingham Palace is something I'll never forget. Finishing on the mall is one of the best ever.

Aid Stations: Very well done. I think there was one about every mile. They gave out Lucozade and water with some gels, jelly beans interspersed along the course. I tried a Lucozade sachet and that was interesting. I appreciate all the things mgmt. is doing to be more ecoconscious.

Post-Race: Compared to other large marathons, they move you through the finish area pretty quickly by giving you your medal almost immediately and everything else all in one bag. My bag did not contain a heat sheet so I had to wait til I got my gear to warm up. Gear retrieval was easy although it was a long walk to my particular truck. Post-race recovery food was minimal and nothing special.

Swag: The medal is nothing special but it is pretty much the same year to year. The shirt is average. Unisex cut so not great for us ladies.

Overall the celebratory vibe, enthusiastic spectators and fabulous course make this race a must-do if you can score an entry.

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