Expo: We got an AirBnB 3 blocks from the DC Armory, so the walk there was easy. We were a little confused with the heavy security, but it was definitely a "welcome to DC" moment! Expo was easy in, easy out, with hardly any lines or congestion on Friday early afternoon.

Pre-Race: We Ubered to the start line, but with all of the road closures, our driver had to drop us off a mile away. We usually like to get to the start at least an hour early, but this one saw us getting into our corral minutes before the start. Can't complain about the start, as being next to the museums made for a nice view, and once the line got moving, we were through the chute quick!

Course: I know most people love the scenery of the course, but I for one was slightly disappointed. I know you likely can't go by too much due to security concerns, but the only monuments you run by are the Washington Monument and the Lincoln Memorial (where you only see the back.) I would've liked to have run around that lake with the Jefferson Memorial, FDR Memorial, and the MLK Memorial. I'm sure there are reasons why, I was just expecting to see more of the monuments and buildings. There was a long stretch of roaad where you're running right at the Capital building which was my favorite part. Wish we could've ran by that or the White House, but I'm sure security concerns make that impossible, and I completely understand.

Difficulty: Overall, an easy course. My first 5+ miles had me right on pace for my goal, if not a little ahead. Then, I hit the Blue mile. Very awesome, with the pictures of fallen soldiers and ROTC cadets waving flags. But also, very, very tough. I knew that hill was coming, I just didn't expect it to be THAT tough. I blew my goal time on that hill, but that's ok. It was a cool experience, and I'll always take tough hills on a course. Last half was mostly flat, but my hammy was super tight after that hill.

Swag: I said it after Savannah... I'm not a fan of RnR swag. The shirts are too gaudy (I like simplicity) and the medals just never get me too excited.

Overall: I'll recommend any RnR race. They always do an excellent job putting on a race, even if I never really care for the swag. This one in particular makes for a great race-cation. I'll definitely be back to do more of these in other cities!