The Nike Women's Half Marathon was a bucket race list for me. I had friend who had done the San Francisco version and I knew I absolutely needed to do the one in DC. The race experience was different than ones I had previously. Nike's Expo was only geared to their products. If you are a Nike fan, this is great. If you aren't, then you will just run in and get your packet and leave. Packet pick-up was quick and easy. I used Uber to get to the expo as recommended by Nike and was able to skip a large portion of the line. The Expo had a lot of little touches that made it special. When you entered the main tent your name flashes on the screen with an encouraging message. You can get your hair done by Paul Mitchell stylists. Make cheering signs. Get your running analyzed by Nike trainers. The expo was a great experience. Make sure you also walk right up the street to Nike Georgetown to explore their store and walk around. Most of the marathon swag is sold there and it did not disappoint. I would recommend getting to the expo as early as possible.

The race was flat and fast and running in and around the monuments in Washington DC was spectacular. The race was in waves and that helped to break up some congestion at the beginning, but I don't think that things really spread out until mile 3. There is a TON of live entertainment which makes for a fun race experience. The only downside was the lines at the port-o-pottys. SO LONG. The aid stations were all well-stocked.

The end of the race with the finish line and Tiffany's Necklaces are very special. Nike is efficient and tries to move everyone along as they want to take pictures. The swag bags at the end of the race have good snacks and post race drinks.

Overall, this was a great experience.

As a Michigander, running in Detroit is something I had wanted to do for a long time. The Detroit International Half was my first major half marathon and it did not disappoint. The expo at Cobo Hall was large. It was great for a lot of last minute pick-ups (GU, Gloves) and fun to see some of the other things that they had for sale (new running belts, medal displays). Parking was fairly decent for the expo because you could use the Cobo Hall parking garage. On race morning parking was also easy to find. I parked in Grand Circus with only a quick walk to the race area and starting line with a lot of other runners.

The race was a wave start with corrals. Big screens showed the starting line and countdown until the race start. A lot of good pump-up music was played, mostly everything Detroit themed. The course is out and back, but doesn't always feel that way. Running the Ambassador Bridge at sunrise is very special and the stretch through Canada is very fun. The best part of the International Half is running in the tunnel and coming back out in the United States. The streets are PACKED with people and signs and the cheering electric. There is some live music through out the course (Mexicantown!) and the aid stations are plentiful and well stocked. After the finish it was slightly difficult to find family members. I would recommend a post race meal at one of the coneys in true Detroit style.