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Philadelphia Love Run Half Marathon
Philadelphia Love Run Half Marathon
( 31 reviews )-
Philadelphia ,
Pennsylvania,
United States - March
- 13.1 miles/Half Marathon, Relay, Other
- Road Race
- Event Website
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Madhuri
Maryland, United StatesOverall
T-Shirts/SWAG
Aid Stations
Course Scenery
Expo Quality
Elevation Difficulty
Parking/Access
Race Management
The Philly Love Run 2017 was my first half-marathon and I couldn't have asked for a better race to be my first! My experience from start to end was top notch and I literally have no complains. Let's dive right in:
Before the race:
1. Race Communication: This was my first race of such humongous magnitude. I really didn't know what to expect and it all seemed pretty intimidating. But, all race communications in the weeks leading up to the race really put all my anxiety at ease. Everything was explicit and clearly communicated.
2. Race Expo: I visited the expo right at hour zero, which was held at the Philadelphia Convention Center. There were a bunch of vendors and I made a cursory glance. There were a bunch of photo ops too. Packet pick-up was a breeze through for a race of such huge magnitude. Packet pick-up was held on two days for 5-6 hours each giving plenty of time for out-of-towners to drop by.
3. Best Swag Ever: Agreed I haven't run a huge race before, but a full sleeve shirt AND a coffee mug, free training plans, vanity bibs (mine read: The Time Is Now) not to forget the giant medal and FREE race photos is more than enough to give this race a 10/10. Nope, you're not dreaming. All race photos are free!!! Also, if you register early enough, the race can be really reasonable ($59-65) for all that your receive. Don't you love when it's a two-way street?
Race Day:
1. Racing options: The Philly Love Run had both an option for a half-marathon and also a 3-member relay team. Although, we ran the whole course together, the leg exchange points were so clearly directed on-course.
2. Course: I loved the course. Being my first half-marathon, it helped to know that this year had lesser hills and for the most part, running flat made my race even special. Majority of the race went by the Schuykill River. Who can complain about good views with water by your side for a good 8ish miles. Am I right?
3. Aid Stations: Every two miles, there was water and gatorade for the runners. I didn't find them crowded at all and the volunteers were on their toes. I believe there was only one Gu station, somewhere around mile 10 - 12. It might have helped to have an addition station at mile 6 or so.
4. Porta Johns: In plenty!! At the start line and also during the course. On course, I did notice some of them had lines. But, there were ones with no lines as well.
5. Overall Crowds: They were phenomenal! Plenty during miles 1-4 and around miles 7-8 when that beastly hill was on and we needed some encouragement.
Post-Race:
1. The finish line was definitely pumping with energy. I received my medal as soon as I was done along with a heat blanket. Volunteers were really helpful in directing us and helping anyone in need. Penn medicine was ever present for medical support.
2. Fueling: A snack goodie bag that included a bottle of water, Philly soft pretzels, Banana, Nesquik Chocolate/Vanilla milk and other goodies to fuel you right away!
3. Free Photos: I received mine within 24 hours. I mean, don't we social media fans need it right away??
4. Plenty of Photo Ops to brag your success!
For details on my race recap:
https://pondernwonder.com/2017/03/30/philly-love-run-2017-race-recap/
It's definitely a race I shall be going back to!!! It's definitely a race you'll love!
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