Expo - I didn't spend too much time at the expo due to work, however, it was well organized. Packet pickup was towards the back of union station, so basically halfway through the vendors. Lots of great vendors including - KC Running Co, Run 816, AfterShokz and more. Had I had more time to spend, I definitely could've come away with (too much) new merch.

Parking - My wife and I parked up by the library district and took the street car down. Even though Kansas City is (somewhat) lacking in public transportation, the street car was a huge help. I would recommend giving yourself plenty of time if you plan on taking the street car as there are only 2 of them and they run from union station to the river market.

The race - I knew this 10K would have more hills than the Plaza 10K. The first mile was basically a gradual uphill and there were rolling hills throughout the course which made pacing a touch more difficult than I anticipated. Aid Stations were well organized as well letting us know that Powerade was first and water was second. This communication made it so there were in surprises in my nutrition. The crowd was great throughout the race. The amount of runners + the amount of spectators made for a great race with lots of energy... until the 10K turns off from the half and full marathon. Once we made the (well marked) turnoff from the half and full, the amount of runners was cut by almost 75%. There were 3 runners in front of me and 3 behind me. It was quiet and I knew we were almost done with the race and it would just be a mental grind to the end. The finish was by far the best part. As you made the turn to the straightaway towards the finish, it was straight downhill. A perfect time to turn on the after burners and finish fast.

Post race snacks were solid. The usual fruit, water, chocolate milk, and even chick-fil-a sandwiches (which I did not partake in). On top of that, there were tents and food trucks set up around the finish for more food.

There were no awards ceremonies after the race as times were calculated in the days after and verified to ensure proper awards.

Overall, a great race and depending on my 2019 race schedule, will be back again.