They say people are friendlier in the South and this race sure proves it - although I may be bias since this is where I live.

This race is run by J&A a local race organizer and they spoil every runner who lives in this area for all other races. This is our St. Patrick's themed race and you'll see lots of green and lots of costumes during the race. The Shamrock 1/2 marathon is often listed as one of the top races in the country and there are many reasons why...

For a locally organized race the Expo is pretty intense. There are lots of vendors and it is held in the VB Convention Center. The shirts are high quality and they always have lots of merchandise for the race and even left overs from past Shamrock races or other races they sponsor (prices can be pretty good on some of these items!) I'm a gal who likes the bibs and the bibs are personalized and look really nice - the only drawback is that your age is on the front of the bib sometimes in giant numbers :-(

Parking isn't a problem if you get there early enough. There are a lot of lots so plan to pay. I usually go this route rather than parking somewhere for free and trekking a mile to the start. It can cost upwards of $20 but the convenience is worth it to me.

The corrals are organized and the start line announcer is always fun. There are plenty of porta-johns at the start and along the course. I usually don't check a bag - but I've never heard a complaint about bag check from any of my friends.

The course is flat - yes flat. It's the beach! You run down the strip, through a military base, down the boardwalk and more. While running on the roadways the entire road is closed - that is not always the case with many races I've done. The course support from the volunteers and the locals is tremendous! There are plenty of water stops along the course fro the official volunteers not to mention the beer stands, bar set ups, cookie ladies, Kleenex kids, and cheerleaders that make up a fraction of the local support. There are also bands and DJ's along the way. The course is never boring that's for sure.

The finish line down the boardwalk is great and at the end of the race there is plenty of water and food for refueling. You'll even get finisher's SWAG along with your medal. this year we all received a 13.1 runners hat - the marathoners got 26.2 obviously. Oh and the medals are no joke - they are HUGE. There is a challenge medal for doing the 8K the day before -they are all beautiful medals.

The post part is awesome. The party is on the beach and there is not one beer for your bib - but 4 and it's Yuengling or cider. There is also Irish stew by the bowl to help you refuel.

My only drawback from this year is that the porta-potties at the finish line had run out of toilet paper. Luckily I travel with baby wipes in my pocket.

If you haven't done this race you need to do it. The weather is always amazing and we know how to throw a party here in Virginia!