Dionne Waugh's Staging Area

This is one of the most fun races I’ve ever done from start to finish. It’s well organized, which can’t surprise anyone given that it’s run by the Marines! Whether you walk or shuttle to the race it’s super easy to navigate and one of the shortest post-race walks I’ve ever had for a marathon.

You really can’t beat seeing the big DC sights on foot when they close down the roads for you. The White House, the Pentagon and the Washington Monument were the highlights for me.

The course itself starts off with some small hills but quickly flattens out. Also this is one of the few races where there were no areas without people cheering you on. Even on the small roads along the water there were still people who biked and walked over to cheer us on. Having people cheer you on the whole course was amazing.

Also the race medal was badass! Distinct AND it opens to include a race-related dog tag inside!

Also I highly recommend the Hyatt Centric as a race hotel. You can’t get any closer to walking distance and they were fabulous and had pre and post race food options. Plus they’re near several great restaurants and a Target

This was the best race ever! You will not find any better crowds cheering you on throughout, more offers of free beer while you’re running and more beautiful and historic sights! This was the first marathon where I was so buoyed by the crowds that I actually ran faster in the final six miles than when I started. It was magical, fun and just an incredible experience

This was probably the funnest race I’ve ever run, especially for a marathon. You can feel the excitement of running with people from around the world, you’re literally running through history, and everyone is SO supportive. From your fellow runners to community members, you’ll have a great time from start to finish. There is no boring section of this race. The sights and sounds are incredible and when you finish running through the Brandenburg Gate, it’s magical. I can’t recommend this race enough.

This is a well organized race and a great way to see the city. The course will challenge you, show you the beautiful parts of the city and some of the not so beautiful parts. Both the full and the half courses are tough but fun races

Hottest and most humid race I’ve ever done anywhere. Be prepared mentally and hydrate accordingly. Though the series was fun, the half and full were super hard because of the heat. Also the course was not fun for the full. You’re on side roads and back roads for 90 percent of the course and only a few fun spots actually in the park, unlike the 5K and the 10k. That being said it’s well organized and the swag is too notch