Heated tent = I think the tent was cooler than the outdoor temps so I thought they had done something.
Pre-race hot and cold beverages, fruit and bagels = not knowing what to expect still brought my own PB bagel and granola. But I DID grab a banana and water. Toss the remaining water in my checked bag LOL
Post-race beverages and snacks = I was feeling sick afterwards so didn't take anything besides not knowing what I'd find after walking across Tent City I decided to grab a bottle at the finish line and a muffin there instead.
Carpeted area for stretching = this was nice. We didn't spot team members and the tables were taken so Susan and I sat on the ground and stretched.
Exclusive baggage check = This was nice though I wish they had something to clip the plastic thingy I used to secure my bag shut. In the future I will just attach it to one of the strings rather that around the neck of the bag. Had I riped my bag I would have been juggling more than a bag, water and my space blanket thingy..
On-site restroom facilities = there was a line up as they were calling for everyone to move to the staging area in the Porta-Potty area. BUT they did have a water thingy, soap and paper towels. BUT here was only 2 or 3 porta potties.
Post-race massage = the wait for me was horrible and I had wanted to try this and when I asked Anne and she told me how long she'd heard the wait was we went back to the room.
Special character greetings. = I agree. The only characters I saw were those of us who paid. I saw Donald out by the stage so possibly he had moved out there before I came in.
Worth it? At the time I said no. I will give it some thought some more and decide again when it opens. It was the 1st year so like others have said could they have looked elsewhere, listened to suggestions and maybe make it better for 2008? I'd be interested in hearing. On the flip side I was a wreck sitting in there because I prefer to be in the staging area waiting. The whole time I sat in the VIP Tent and then waiting in line for the porta potty I kept picturing I'd be the last one squeezed into staging and therefore the last one to cross the start. For me that was too much pressure. Hmmm I might have just answered my own question on if I will do it again or not
but I agree with Robert. If this IS something you want to do be prepared. Susan called me as I was driving home from work that day and she signed up, I flew into the house and signed up. I believe we pretty much signed up as they opened it, within the hour of it opening. It was sold out in a flash. If you want it, be ready and watch the site the day it's schedule to open.
Happy training and regardless we'll see you in the parks, expo, pre-race and post-race. Do what's best for you to have the best race you possibly can. You'll be able to spot me pre-race, turning green at the smell of Susan's PB bagel LOL
Remember the Marathon VIP Runner package filled in 1 day and the Half in 2 days. Don't wait after they open it up!
