Social Media: West Van Run is top-notch in terms of social media. I strongly recommend connecting with them on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Race communications via email are regular and informative. Despite race-perfect weather on Saturday, snow on Sunday caused traffic disruption and worries about the race - however, all social media channels kept us informed that the race would go on!

Packet Pickup: 10k packet pickup was available both Friday and Saturday at Park Royal. They generally discourage day-of pickup, although I believe it was still allowed. Maybe a Thursday evening option would help, too?

T-Shirt/Swag: I am already well kitted with West Van Run swag, but no t-shirts accompanied this race. Medals (and bottles of bubbly!) were awarded to the winners only. However, everyone gets an awesome and handy West Van Run water bottle. Also – although I wasn’t able to attend – free beer at Village Taphouse at the Sunday night after party!

Course: I really liked the new course as it wended its way through the streets of West Vancouver, and finished along the seawall. There are a few small hills at the start, but the course is essentially flat. Local residents, however, seemed remarkably unhappy (particularly on Sunday – when, apparently, at least one volunteer was pushed out of the way by an angry resident, who then proceeded to drive through a barrier). I wonder if more consultation with the community is required?

Post-Race: Awesome bags full of yummy goodies, and lots of vendors set up by the finish line. The biggest areas for improvement: 1) distribution of goodie bags…everyone had to line up at the door of the Beach House to be handed their bag. Tables outside might work better. 2) Gear check pickup – something went logistically awry on Saturday, but was improved by Sunday after the 10k.

Would I Run It Again? Without question! Maybe next time I’ll take it easy during the 5k, and try to beat my course PB during the 10k! Really enjoyed this year's superhero theme - wonder what's in store for 2018?!

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