New Albany Walking Classic

This was my first time registering for the Walking Classic, so I went with the 10k for my first race.  Sign-up was simple and straightforward, with occasional email updates.  I was expecting a little more information in the weeks leading up to the race but relied mostly on the website for the details.  Packet pickup could have been better marked - I ended up going in the wrong door - but the rest of the process was smooth.  I'd been told that the race swag was some of the best, and I definitely wasn't disappointed (though I was surprised that the name of the race didn't appear on the race shirt - just the year).  Race day was rainy, but that didn't really spoil the fun.  My friends and I showed up with plenty of time to spare and were able to find parking without too much of a problem - though, again, it could have been marked a little better for those of us not from the area.  There was plenty of music to get everyone excited - and cheerleaders, too.  Though the beginning of the race was definitely congested, it eventually opened up to allow walkers to continue at their own pace.  Volunteers were set up along the course to direct racers, to ring bells and hold up signs, and to hand out refreshments.  The course wasn't filled with exciting urban scenery, but it was neat and easy to navigate. There were plenty of tree-lined roads and all kinds of beautiful homes to see along the way.  But the real fun came after the race, where vendors spoiled races with treats and other goodies.  We left feeling a little soggy, but we were full and happy.  It was a fun day, and we plan on doing it again next year.