Chevron Houston Marathon & Aramco Houston Half Marathon
Houston, TX
- Marathon, Half Marathon, 5K
- Road (Paved)
- Official race website
The Houston Marathon Committee annually organizes the nationās premier winter marathon, half-marathon, and 5K. Over 250,000 participants, volunteers and spectators make Chevron Houston Marathon Race Day the largest single-day sporting event in Houston. Race weekend events include: Chevron Houston Marathon, Aramco Houston Half Marathon, We Are Houston 5K, and the … MORE
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Big fun in HOU!
Very well organized expo and race. Sufficient pre-race communication emails with relevant information on the expo and races. The race packet included the bib and a nice, 20-oz hot/cold aluminum … MORE
Very well organized expo and race. Sufficient pre-race communication emails with relevant information on the expo and races. The race packet included the bib and a nice, 20-oz hot/cold aluminum travel mug with lid. Finisher shirts were not given out at the expo but rather AFTER you finished the race, in the post-race area. Fairly large expo with lots of vendors, samples, freebies, and race essentials for purchase. Long wait lines for a free personalized shirt, so I skipped it. Bone chilling cold start to the race without any heat lamps or heat sheets so bring your own sheets/hand warmers. Lot of volunteers to ensure runners knew where to go. Nothing spectacular about the course, in my opinion but lots of people were out cheering and supporting runners. Water and Gatorade were available approximately every 2 miles. Gels were also available around mile 7ish. Visible mile markers along the course for both the half and full events (shared course until split just after mile 7). The split for the marathon was very well marked. My absolute favorite part of this course was being able to get a shot (or two) of Fireball whiskey at mile 12 LOL!! Once finishers crossed the finish line, medals were distributed then runners were funneled into the huge hall of the convention center where photo ops, foods, changing areas, and finisher swag (HOU double medal etc.) were available. I especially liked that this area was only for runners/finishers. Family members had to wait until their loved ones exited that area to be reunited. Finisher food items included an ice-cream bar (think dessert before meal), followed by eggs, pancakes, biscuits, sausage, gravy, bananas, coffee and water. For runners who wanted to reunite with loved ones sooner, they could skip the free post race meal and eat at a neighboring restaurant, some of which were co-located at the convention center. Great race and one I’d recommend but not repeat. One and done for me because of the extremely cold temps. Great experience though. While in the area, I also drove out to the Space Center Houston. I’d been to HOU countless times visiting family and never explored the area until this race.
Gorgeous day at least
Can't really complain about the race itself seeing as the American record for a half marathon fell at this one... just not a great race for me personally. MORE
Can’t really complain about the race itself seeing as the American record for a half marathon fell at this one… just not a great race for me personally.
Flat and fast
Overall this was a good race, minus the freak cold weather on race day. There was good prerace communication, which included an online runners guide with expo information and start/finish … MORE
Overall this was a good race, minus the freak cold weather on race day. There was good prerace communication, which included an online runners guide with expo information and start/finish info. The expo was large as expected. Packet pickup went smoothly and then they funnel you into the expo. You got a free travel mug during packet pickup, but a shirt was not included. They did have a free race shirt, however you had to wait in an obscenely long line and the shirt options were not worth the wait in my opinion. I opted out…
There was a gear check, but it was not near the start line. This was very inconvenient on an unseasonably cold morning. It seemed like there were plenty of porta potties by each corral. I waited until the last minute to go to the corral since the hotel was so close to the start, which was nice.
The start had several corrals and a wave start. Even with the corrals, it took me over 4 minutes to cross the start line.
The crowd support was great. You could hear people cheering for the majority of the race. The half and full marathon split around mile 7, and there is a turnaround by this huge fountain which was pretty. Be prepared for a headwind from mile 8.5-11.
The course was very flat but not terribly scenic since it’s all around the city.
Once you cross the finish line, you are forced to go into the convention center where you get a finisher shirt. Luckily these were nicer than the free shirt option at the expo. You have a ticket for food, but I did not use it.
Overall this was a well executed race. I’m not sure if I would run it again, but it is a good choice if you want to run a PR, as long as it’s not in the 30s like it was this year!
Cold and Windy
I try to run races in the south in the winter, because it's typically warmer, not this year. Unfortunately my rating of the race will be lower due to the … MORE
I try to run races in the south in the winter, because it’s typically warmer, not this year. Unfortunately my rating of the race will be lower due to the weather, which they have no control over. The Houston Marathon definitely has the big race feel, I think there were 35,000 plus runners combined in all 3 races offered. 25 minute ride to downtown from the airport. Stayed and the Cambria Downtown Convention Center Hotel, it’s great walking distance to everything you need, especially the start. Packet pick up was about 5 blocks away, lots of vendors like a big race would have. I did not spend to much time there, but there was lots of stuff to do. You get the shirt after you finish the race, which is a bit different then others. Houston was kind of dead on the weekend, lots of hotels around, a few breweries. Cheaper food and a market to get some Powerade, were a bit tough to find. Race morning was very cold and very windy. It was in the 60s on the Saturday and had to be in the 20s on Sunday morning with the wind. Early start time, got the corral 45 minutes early, big mistake with the cold. Tons of porta potties everywhere. Race start was 7 am ish, I wore a trash bag for the first 3rd of the race due to the cold and wind, finally switched over to disposable rain coat for the rest of the race to block some of the wind. The course is mostly flat, the only hill I can remember is in the last 3 miles, and it was not that bad. Starts in the city, then you run out into the suburbs, and back. Nothing to really rave about, there was huge fountain we ran around which was interesting. Lots of crowd support for most of the race, the water/Gatorade stops were every 2ish miles, and volunteers were great. Marathon splits around mile 8 and I felt sorry for them with all of the weather. After crossing the finish and getting your medal, which was nice (state of Texas shape), you go inside the convention center, which was warm. Water, chocolate milk, bananas, chips, then there is a sit down area for scrambled eggs, sausage, and biscuits and gravy. It looked good, but I can’t eat much after a race. The shirts were something I will not hang onto very long. The walk back to the hotel was cold, they did not have the thermal blanket things to give out. Overall the race is very well put together. Volunteers were awesome, and crowd support was great, especially in the cold/windy weather (have I mentioned this yet?). Others I talked to after the race and in the airport really enjoyed it, even marathoners, I guess they did not mind the weather as much as I did.
Windy and freezing in space town
Houston was cold and windy but that didnāt stop thousands of runners. The race was impressively well put together from the beginning with the expo. Expo was nice with many … MORE
Houston was cold and windy but that didnāt stop thousands of runners. The race was impressively well put together from the beginning with the expo. Expo was nice with many freebies. The start of the marathon was rather unusual. Had to walk around in a circle of over a mile to get to my corral. Once there the race was about to start, and did so on time. There was plenty of aid stations, water, electrolytes, even a Gatorade protein bar station. There was a bad head wind between miles 13-18 which slowed me down. But was able to make up for it after that with back wind. Apparently there were heating busses along the course, however I never saw them. There was a minor bridge at mile 12. Not a big deal but some may complain. There was plenty of space along the course to run and never felt crammed. Be careful however, I almost stepped on a dead armadillo at mile 18. There was a cool sound system that played music between mile 20-22. It lead inside of a tunnel with a dj which was cool. There were some ups and downs after that leading to downtown with the wind in favor. Approaching the finish line I heard my name on an intercom, which was cool. After crossing the finish line you have to walk a little to get your medal. Medal is nice. They then push you into the convention center to retrieve your mug/shirt and food. You MUST have a ticket for these items. I appreciated the port a potties inside the convention. I took the snacks included bananas, water, chocolate milk, granola bar, rice crispies, pb crackers, and cookies. The seperate ticket included sausage, eggs, pancakes biscuits and gravy that I did not partake in. Overall, great experience and course and would highly recommend.
Must Do Race - Fast & High Energy Crowds
While it was a cold day (30s but felt much colder due to wind chill), the marathon was amazing. Extremely well organized and produced, Houston is a flat course and … MORE
While it was a cold day (30s but felt much colder due to wind chill), the marathon was amazing. Extremely well organized and produced, Houston is a flat course and crowds can be seen/heard pretty much at every mile along the route. This is a huge race and corrals are extremely large. Corral C waited roughly 40 minutes until start and wind was whipping thru the corral entire wait time. I PRād and wonder if I wouldāve been faster if temps were a bit higher. Some elevation around an over pass and during last couple of miles, overall even running. Wonderful volunteers and crowds. Common to hear your name cheered out. Music throughout the course and in some cases, outdoor speakers played songs in later miles. Convention center was open before and after race. Nice touch was having portables indoors. If you live in Texas or are wanting a course to help you PR, this is a must do event. Highly recommend.
What an experience ā¤ļø
This race is a well-oiled machine. I have previously run the 1/2 distance for this race and had nothing by amazing experiences with it. The marathon was all of that … MORE
This race is a well-oiled machine. I have previously run the 1/2 distance for this race and had nothing by amazing experiences with it. The marathon was all of that and more. Communication – A+. Expo – A+. Hydration, nutrition, and aid stations – A+. Hype stations – A+. Post-race experience – A+. The mostly flat course takes you through so many different areas of the city and really showcases our amazing running community. I cannot say enough good things about this race from start to finish.
I Got Injured. But It's an Amazing Race!
I really wish I didn't get injured during this race (around mile 10, I experienced a sharp pain at my groin/adductor muscles). This was the smoothest and well-planned expo and … MORE
I really wish I didn’t get injured during this race (around mile 10, I experienced a sharp pain at my groin/adductor muscles). This was the smoothest and well-planned expo and race I have ever been to!
Expo: You check in with your ID and code, then head to the table(s) for your bag. When you go to the table, they already have your stuff made and confirm it’s you by greeting you with your name. There were tons of vendors to buy from and I felt so welcomed here!
Race: Weather was a tad cold in the morning, but it warms up. There is TONS of corral control (security to check corral assignment). The course is flat! There were tons of alcohol stops (I think I stopped 6 times). The weather was 10/10!
Post Race: You get your medal, food, and t-shirt when you finish!
I would love to do Houston again as a redo!
I came undone in Houston.
Perfect Running weather (mid 40's) and a fast course meant FAST times for lots of runners, including a new Men's course record! Unfortunately, for me, my fitness level was not … MORE
Perfect Running weather (mid 40’s) and a fast course meant FAST times for lots of runners, including a new Men’s course record! Unfortunately, for me, my fitness level was not where I needed it to be, so I remain at 37 states in my journey to 50 states, sub 4 Hours. Very well organized. Convention Center is enormous, so plenty of room for everything marathon related. Course itself should be fast with very little climbing and lots of sights to enjoy. I’ll be back next year!
Flat, fast tour of The Bayou City
There were over 20K finishers combined between the half and full marathons. So, it is a pretty good sized marathon. You need to schedule an approximate time to pick up … MORE
There were over 20K finishers combined between the half and full marathons. So, it is a pretty good sized marathon. You need to schedule an approximate time to pick up your race pack and visit the expo to help keep it from getting too busy at any one time. The expo was at the convention center. It was quick and easy to pick up the bib. The expo, however, was very crowded despite the scheduled pick up times. It seemed like there was not enough space and was very difficult to get around. I didn’t spend much time there. You do not get your race shirt until after you finish your race.
You had to submit a previous race time if you wanted to be in Corral A. I was surprised what a wide range of paces there were within the A corral. Luckily, there were pace groups which helped me know about where I should line up. There are a lot of elite athletes that run Houston and I knew I did not belong with them. I also did not want to be dodging people.
The half and full marathons started together at 7:01. It was a little windy, but otherwise perfect running weather.
The route is a big circle and ends close to the start. You’ll run by Rice University and get a good tour of some of the neighborhoods. The streets are in good shape and the only real hill comes in the form of an overpass just before halfway. You go through a couple tunnels with music which is a little trippy. There were plenty of fluid stations and a decent amount of spectators. It wasn’t lined 3 deep, and was sparse in some places, but some people were out watching, especially near the end.
The only complaint I had about the race was the end. The half and full runners come together near the end and finish together. Just past the finish line, everything narrows. There were lines to get the finisher medal and then everyone is herded together and funneled into the convention center to pick up their shirt. This was such a bottleneck and people were just standing there. It was very annoying. I just wanted to keep moving. Make sure you have a plan and a place to meet any family or friends as well. It was rather chaotic and very busy in the convention center.
The shirt was nice, but seemed to run a little small. Medal was also nice and featured the tunnel that we ran through. Overall, it was a worthwhile race.
A view from the back of the pack
Always nice to run the hometown event. The expo had the usual vendors and seemed to be a little larger than the past year or two. The event is always … MORE
Always nice to run the hometown event. The expo had the usual vendors and seemed to be a little larger than the past year or two. The event is always 1st class, and the race production is always smooth. The George R Brown events center is able to accommodate both pre and post race activities with plenty of room to spare. The spectator’s numbers were significantly less this year due to the 40 degree temps which most Houstonians aren’t used to.
Volunteers are great as always. Water stops are well stocked. I have the same 3 concerns that I’ve had in previous years: 1) Tee shirts are ALWAYS too small. Everyone was commenting on this and I wish the marathon leadership would listen to these concerns. 2) Porta potties are ALWAYS lacking on the course. Even being in the rear of the pack, each porta-potty stop was at least a 5 minute wait. 3) After finishing, there is a traffic jam between the finish line and the George R Brown. Probably no easy fix for this, but it should be reviewed. I’ve run H-Town 6 times now and will again in 2025.
We spent the night at the Homewood suites directly between the Convention center and the starting corrals. We’ve had good experiences here the past 3 years.
Outstanding prep and expo, very crowded
Pros: - This is in the very large race category. It is obvious that a lot of details were considered in the preparation before, during and after the race. Overall … MORE
Pros:
– This is in the very large race category. It is obvious that a lot of details were considered in the preparation before, during and after the race. Overall very well managed.
– Point-to-point course. For me that is usually a “con”, but the start and the finish are only a few blocks away. Both are easily accessible from all downtown hotels, especially near the Convention Center.
– Excellent pre-race communication. Very good race app.
– Gigantic expo with all the leading shoes and racing gear brands present.
– Post race recovery area inside the Convention Center is enormous, with multiple port-a-lets and changing area. Only accessible to runners. They include a most pleasant served breakfast! (scramble eggs, sausages, mini pancakes and biscuit) and snacks (bananas, fruit bars, cookies, ice cream) with a large section of multiple tables to sit and enjoy it. This is followed by a wide organized spectators meeting area.
– In race hydration stations were plentiful (every 1.5 to 2 miles (2.5-3.5 Km)). All having electrolyte drinks first, then water.
– Medical and security personnel all along the course.
– Very enthusiastic volunteers and cheering crowd through the entire course.
– Relatively easy flat course (but .. see cons below). No bridges. (FYI: For Race Raves lower difficulty score is better/easier).
Cons:
– Very popular and crowded race (14K for the half plus 10K (?) for the full) running together until the course splits just after 8 miles. I think is fun but don’t expect a personal best unless you are in the front corrals (some decent times for elite international runners getting ready for the Paris Summer Olympics).
– Not exactly a “scenic” route. There a some beautiful neighborhoods in the mid part of the race. Not much shade. But because is January this isn’t usually an issue. Bring your sunblock and running shades, though.
– Hydration stations only in one side of the road which create some confusion and bumping with such a wide field of runners. I’ve been in other very large races having signs about a quarter mile before the oasis, letting runners know that hydration is ahead to the left or right. This race doesn’t have such signs.
– The area immediately after the finish line was quite narrow leading to very slow and chaotic flow of runners into the post race area.
– Race shirt and medals were just too ordinary. You can barely make that the medal is from Houston. You get your T-shirt in the post race area after completing the race, I guess because the expo is so packed.
Overall, I understand the hype about this race. Houston is a great city. It is no doubt, comparable to New York, Boston or Chicago.
Well run race for it's large field
The course is predominantly flat, with only one overpass that resembles a hill at the midpoint, but it's not particularly significant. The rollers near the last 2-3 miles gain importance … MORE
The course is predominantly flat, with only one overpass that resembles a hill at the midpoint, but it’s not particularly significant. The rollers near the last 2-3 miles gain importance due to their placement in the race. It’s a very fast race, especially when weather conditions are favorable. The 2024 race experienced optimal temperatures in the 40s, leading to the establishment of multiple elite records, including the Women’s Half – North American Record, American Women’s Half Record, and Men’s Full Course Record. Personally, it marked my fastest time in the last 15 races.
The event, despite its large size, is well-organized. Opting to stay downtown near the start/finish/convention center is recommended as everything is easily accessible by foot. Race check-in provides a nice towel, while the shirt, medal, and beer mug are awarded as finisher rewards. Aid stations are abundant along the course, ensuring hydration is always within reach. The back half of the race receives significant support from the crowds.
Organizers enhance the race experience by placing multiple speakers along stretches, such as the hill at 13 and the wall at 21-22, providing a musical backdrop for miles. It’s important to note that participants are assigned to corrals based on expected finish times, with corrals starting approximately 10 minutes apart. For instance, Corral C, for 4-5 hour finishers, began 25 minutes after the race start. Corrals lack porta-potties, trash cans, or aid, but these facilities are available just before the start and in the first mile. Quick stops are possible in the first mile with no waiting if needed.
Good Half to PR
After coming back from injury only 3 months ago, a PR wasn't in the cards. But the course is super flat, has minimal sharp turns and would be a great … MORE
After coming back from injury only 3 months ago, a PR wasn’t in the cards. But the course is super flat, has minimal sharp turns and would be a great 13.1k PR attempt.
I did it!
This race was exceptional - the start line energy is unmatched, and the on-course support could not have been better. The Expo is one of the best I have been … MORE
This race was exceptional – the start line energy is unmatched, and the on-course support could not have been better. The Expo is one of the best I have been to. We participated in the We are Houston 5k the day before, and also earned the Houston Double Medal at our finish. Highly recommend doing this for the experience!
This race is described as fast and flat, and it is! We had perfect weather throughout the race as well. One of the things slower runners should know is that there is a 13:45 pace requirement over the first 8 miles that is listed in the rules on the registration site. It caused me quite a bit of stress, but other runners from prior years encouraged me not to worry. I did spot the course sweepers on the course, but did not see anyone at my pace (about 15:30 per mile) swept off. The spectators show out! I lost count of how many random strangers cheered me on by name by just reading my bib. Everyone after mile 9 saved me!
My only complaint would be the number of available port-a-cans after mile 8 on the half marathon course. I still hit a personal best but lost about 8 minutes waiting for a restroom. I’ll plan accordingly next year.
I also purchased the photography package because I feel like I never get great photos and wanted a few good ones. They snapped over 100, and now I’m having trouble choosing my favorites.
My last bit of caution is be sure to plan ahead for miles before and after the race. As I mentioned, we attended the expo and did the 5k the day before. This amounted to almost 10 miles total the day before the half. Then – after you finish the half, you continue walking through the medal stations, photo booths, t-shirt pickup and gear check. All I wanted to do was sit down! Next year, we will limit our activities the day before to have fresher legs the day of the main event.
Overall, it was an incredible experience!
Add oil!
Chevron is a gas station company. In Mandarin Chinese, to encourage someone, you say "å ę²¹!!" (jiÄ yĆ³u). It literally means "add oil". I love dad jokes, so I told several … MORE
Chevron is a gas station company. In Mandarin Chinese, to encourage someone, you say “å ę²¹!!” (jiÄ yĆ³u). It literally means “add oil”. I love dad jokes, so I told several Chinese runners and fans that this was the perfect race to add oil because it was the *Chevron* Houston Marathon. Soooo many rolled eyes and giggles.
The pre-race and post-race expo are at the George Brown Convention Center in downtown. You receive your bib in one smaller room (??) before proceeding to a larger room to get a towel and small free merch. Dozens of vendors. But where’s the free shirt? No, not a cotton one; give me something to wear on race day! There was a line of 100 people for a cotton T-shirt that was pressed on the spot with Houston Marathon logos. But no athletic tee. Bummer. I was told I would receive a finisher shirt after the race.
I stayed in the BPoshtels Houston hostel 3 miles north of town. $31/night, and a 9 minute walk from the Red Line light rail that takes you downtown. If you do this, board the light rail before 6am. You will definitely need the spare time when you get downtown. The neon sign outside actually says “Heights Hotel”; don’t be fooled. It’s a converted motel, free breakfast, free pool, indoor bar, patio, and 24 hour reception. They had both Saturday NFL playoff games on TV in there, including a resounding victory by the hometown Texans. However, I *couldn’t* sleep. Maybe the single quilt and no bedsheets weren’t quite enough. Maybe I was too nervous. But I got one <5 minute taste of sleep at 3am and that was it. However, I wired myself up at 4am and ended up running just fine. Not my first sleepless night before a marathon :< and surprisingly, as a 27 year old it doesn't hurt my performance too much.
Race morning in the Convention Center is chaos, with dozens of groups of people hanging out in packs and stretching on the floor. It’s like a postgame stadium mixed with Sunday church after service. Luckily, the marathon bag drop is short and efficient, but then you have to exit the center through a small exit, trapped in a stream of people. I was in the ‘A’ corral, and they said it closes at 6:45, 16 minutes before race start. Thankfully, I got in there about 6:47, and I wasn’t the only one a few minutes late. They’re not overly strict about that.
The race starts/ends in downtown. It was one of the flattest courses I’ve run. There are both mile and km markers, and clocks every 10km. We run over a highway bridge at mile 3, through a nice treed neighborhood from miles 5-8, and a humorous priest was dipping a branch in a cup of water and sprinkling holy water on willing runners at mile 8. Bless up, y’all! We run past Rice University at mile 9, and enter an outskirts suburb at mile 12. Miles 14-16 have a lovely SoCal vibe as you run up Post Oak Boulevard, which is 5 miles west of downtown but has skyscrapers, new roads, and tree-lined medians. 17-20 are on some 40 mph roads past neighborhoods.
Save your energy for mile 20, though. The last 6 miles are east, straight into the sun. Even though the weather was *perfect* (45-50 degrees all morning), and it was January, Houston sun doesn’t mess around. You can feel how powerful that sun is. I survived it because it was unusually cold today; but it could cause heat stroke and kill someone if the high is 70-75 degrees.
Miles 20-23 are through Memorial Park. We run through some cool tunnels. The smartest DJ ever put his booth inside one tunnel, allowing the sound to echo and reverberate. It’s a transcendental experience when you’re 21 miles in and the DJ plays “Staying Alive”, and the entire song washes you clean and scrubs every thought out of your head. Absolute chills. One of my favorite memories at any marathon, ever.
Miles 23-25 are on the outskirts of town with more shade than 20-23, and the only small hills on the whole course. You enter downtown at 25, and it’s a mad dash to the end.
Frustrating post-race production š the finishers are forced to stand in place and herded like sheep through a small gate, where 3-4 volunteers hand medals to hundreds of finishers. No place to sit down or sneak out. We get inside the convention center and are herded AGAIN through a fenced path. How do marathon organizers not understand that the only thing finishers want to do is collapse on the ground? We finish right next to the Discovery Green, a large park square. Why not remove all the fences and let runners limp over there to catch their breath and grab a medal, then let them go inside the convention center for optional food/shirt/gear? Bottlenecks should be public enemy #1 for organizers, especially right after the finish. (Looking at you, Kyoto Marathon }: ) Probably 15-20 minutes before I could sit down at all. Thankfully, post-race gear reclamation and finisher shirt pickup were both very fast. It looked like a great postrace party with lots of free food indoors, and a nice outdoor party on the Discovery Green; sadly I had to leave to catch a flight.
Disappointed by the Houston vibes and lack of city pride. I know this is SE Texas, not the desert, but there is no cowboy culture here. I only saw 2 cowboy hats all weekend, no boots, no horses, not much pride in local BBQ. No one says “howdy” or “y’all” here. (At least the Mexican food slaps.) Virtually no downtown traffic, which feels lonely actually. And since there’s not much foot traffic, the homeless population will bother you if you do dare to walk around (5 people yelled at me in the first 4 hours I spent downtown). Never feels like a classic Texas city, just a souped-up version of any other southeast metro like Charlotte, Nashville, Atlanta, or Memphis; and *infinitely* more sprawling. Oh my gosh. Don’t get me started on that sprawl.
Pacing friends
Weather turned out perfect a little windy. Course is super flat with some small rolling hills towards the end. Great marathon all around. Iād run it again. MORE
Weather turned out perfect a little windy. Course is super flat with some small rolling hills towards the end. Great marathon all around. Iād run it again.
Loved it, top 3 marathon
Great marathon, course is fairly flat, reminded me of running Chicago. Packet pick up was smooth with some cool items like a towel and beer mug. Convention was located downtown … MORE
Great marathon, course is fairly flat, reminded me of running Chicago. Packet pick up was smooth with some cool items like a towel and beer mug. Convention was located downtown Houston with plenty of parking.
A great shake-out!
Great event prior to the full/half marathon the next day. Lots of energy, and one of the best 5k's in town. I never get to run with my husband, because … MORE
Great event prior to the full/half marathon the next day. Lots of energy, and one of the best 5k’s in town. I never get to run with my husband, because he’s faster than me, but we enjoyed finishing this one together!
Houston does it Big!
Pros: Packet pickup is separate from the Expo so you don't have to walk through a maze of vendors to exit. Bag Check is in the spacious and warm Convention … MORE
Pros:
Packet pickup is separate from the Expo so you don’t have to walk through a maze of vendors to exit.
Bag Check is in the spacious and warm Convention Center and you can wait in there until your corral is called. It was cold this year so this was nice!
Great crowd support considering it was a cold day
Swag: Beach towel, Finisher shirt (given out after you finish)
My favorite is that after you cross the finish line, you are led back into the WARM Convention Center! Plus there is a sit-down hot breakfast with hot drinks. There are also lots of snacks and ice cream. After you leave the Convention Center they have a traditional outdoor festivities with beer and vendors.
The organization is great and I love the Convention Center š I would definitely run this race again.
Cons:
Course can get crowded toward end of half marathon b/c the road is shared with the Marathon