Review: Seattle Rock 'n' Roll 8k

What: Seattle Rock 'n' Roll 8K  

Where: Seattle
When: June 12, 2015
Distance: 8k

Just completed the first ever 8k race held during the Rock 'n' Roll Seattle Half Marathon and Marathon weekend.

This is my first time trying out the Seattle Rock 'n' Roll event. While it's a short distance, the hills of Seattle + the time limits the half marathon have made me resist giving it a try.

When the RnR series added an 8k this year, I gave a little thought... and then right after the Portland event, I took the plunge and decided to give it a go.

The course started and began at the Seattle Center pretty much right by the Space Needle. It pretty much went straight downtown to Pioneer Square and then turned back. There was some hill action, but it wasn't too crazy. Shortly after we turned back, we made a few turns and ended up heading back via the top deck of the Viaduct. It was pretty cool to look to the left and see the water. We went up a bit of a hill after that and through a really long tunnel. It wasn't too hot out so it was pretty bearable, but I have a feeling it might have been uncomfortable in the tunnel if it'd been too hot.
We made a few more turns, hit a small hill and then it was a pretty straight shot to the Finish Line.

I was struck by the number of people along the course who were cheering for the participants. It was pretty cool at the end to have so many people there, waiting and cheering as we made our way in.

I certainly didn't break any speed records, but I was pleased to not have to stop once along the way... and to not have a pace car behind me. (Wink!) 
I also loved that throughout this race we were mixed with the half marathoners and marathoners. The 8K course was shorter (of course), but we followed the same route these folks did. I really loved that... and appreciated the inspiration during the race from those going the longer distances.

After the run, we were treated to a concert. This year's headliner was Mudhoney.

What we got:

Like all RNR races, we received a t-shirt, a plastic nap sack, a finisher's medal and free beer and an assortment of snacks and drinks after the race.

(The medal for this year's 8k)

Final thoughts:

I'd do this one again. Very much enjoyed it and appreciated the shorter distance being made available.
Definitely need to budget in for parking too. While the race admission wasn't bad, we spent $40 over two days for parking. ($20 for the race expo and $20 for parking at the Seattle Center). Plus, we had to be in the garage on race day by 6 a.m. as the roads were closed off after 6 a.m.