And another great race put on by RAS! Man, these guys know what they’re doing and they do it well! If you want a well-run race(see what I did there?) with yummy food, free beer, ice cream(because ice cream and beer before 9:00 am on the Fourth of July just screams ‘Merica!), and amazing volunteers, then this is your race! I think I’ve written this review before. Oh yeah. For the other RAS races I’ve done! Easy to find, and tons of parking, and plenty of porta potties with NO line? Ok, this is starting out on the right foot! There wasn’t a huge crowd, but there was enough people there to make it fun and interesting. The official photographer was walking around taking candids, which was fun. Usually I only see the photographer(s) on the course, and the end. The race went off right on time and the weather couldn’t have been more perfect. The race warns you that it’s not for the unprepared, as y’all know what the Fourth is like down here… hot and humid at 7 am! But this morning was overcast, with a breeze and it really felt great out there! I know we won’t get that lucky every year, but I will take it when I can get it! The race is 5 miles, and pretty much an out and back, but the route is slightly different, so although you’re seeing some of the same things twice, it’s not exactly the same. There’s plenty of water stations with water, Gatorade and cold towels, but it’s not a bad idea to bring your own hydration! There’s not a lot of spectators out, but there were a few, and that’s always fun. The course is flat and fast, and there were people who passed us at the 1 mile mark. So yeah. It’s fast if that’s your thing. If not, there’s plenty of slower runners, or run/walkers, or just walkers, too. Right before the end they were handing out little American flags so you could hold up your flag when you crossed the finish line! So cool! They announce your name too, which is always a thrill! The after party is just as fun, with plenty of goodies and showers, and cold water and soda and sausage on a stick. Which I didn’t think sounded good, but man that protein after 5 miles was awesome! They also had free after race stretching/massages…so nice! No medals for this one though, but still worth 5-stars! If you want to celebrate your freedom with a run and some beer, then come on down next year on July 4th and join me! I’ll be there!
