The expo was small but very well done. It was held in a large entertainment center (?) associated with a school there. Local sponsors provided great gear and everything was extremely well organized.

The race began at 8 AM; the weather was low 40's with a solid breeze (10-15 mph). Half and full marathoners began at the same time and no corralling was done, though this probably wasn't necessary. The first 10 miles include both the half and full marathoners so there are more runners around, though not unreasonably so. The first 4-5 miles are the most scenic, as you traverse near the water and through downtown streets. The later miles go through nice parks and are picturesque, but large portions of the middle of the race are fairly drab.

Aid stations were plentiful and local entertainment was at many of the stations, which was definitely appreciated. The course is also very flat and I'm sure many PR'ed. I was immediately given a water bottle, chocolate milk, and a banana upon finishing, and shrimp and grits, beer, and music awaited around the corner in the small downtown area of N. Charleston. Perhaps my only complaint is that the runner's guide was inaccurate on several items, including a few parking areas that were actually not for runners or had closed, which was a mild annoyance the morning of the race.

Overall, I'd definitely recommend this race, for both seasoned and beginning marathoners.