I won't repeat blow by blow the super cool pre-race fanfare, the expo, the swag, the course, etc. You can find that everywhere.

I did this race in 2016 and 2017. I'd say that the race delivery was pretty much the same. The only big difference was for 2017, the Iwo Jima memorial was being restored. No big deal. It was still a powerful finish line.

My biggest impressions cognitively, emotionally and physically:

-the pacer was a good mix of encouraging, funny, and demanding

- the medal is the best you will find before you hit an ultra belt buckle.

-crowd support is on point. Loved the political running signs both years I ran.

-the marines are positive and encouraging and up for a sweaty high five and selfie.

-the course is something special. It keeps me signing up. How many times do you get to run down the middle of the street in georgetown to thousands of screaming fans. The national mall..not to mention the tribute to the fallen. It is a powerful experience in this regard.

-the pain of the marathon is definitely offset by the awesomeness of the scenery. I'd say that the bridge is something to contend with psychologically. Also, be careful of the incline at the beginning. Otherwise, it was smooth sailing (as much as a marathon can be).

The course and the marines are all the reason you need to run this. Parking and spectator logistics...a bit more difficult to navigate. However, that doesn't even begin to outweigh any of the reasons why this is one of the best damn marathons in the country.