Talk to me about the MCM & MCM10k

[Anonymous]

I'm doing the MCM10k, and this is the first big race I've ever done, and have some questions.

How does the bag check work? I don't plan on taking much - phone/headphones, metrocard, maybe a little cash, and house key. But if I do decide to bring more, does a bag check work smoothly? Does someone drive your things from the start, to the finish?

Food/drinks at finish - do runners have to pay?

Getting home - metro is obviously easiest. Are there shuttles that take runners to certain drop off areas?

Any other suggestions for first timers to a large race, and the MCM/10k in general?

[Anonymous]

Also, what's the incline like for the 14th St. Bridge, compared to running the Woodrow Wilson, or Key bridge? I'm trying to do some hill runs to make my legs ready, but how does it compare? What are the big hill/incline points for the 10k course?

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:I'm doing the MCM10k, and this is the first big race I've ever done, and have some questions.

How does the bag check work? I don't plan on taking much - phone/headphones, metrocard, maybe a little cash, and house key. But if I do decide to bring more, does a bag check work smoothly? Does someone drive your things from the start, to the finish?
bag check is pretty easy. I wouldn't use it for anything valuable like a phone or keys. When I did the MCM, I used it for my sweats. It's like going to the dry cleaners:you get a ticket. Then at the finish, you go to a truck that matches your ticket number. When I did the MCM10K I did not use the bag check. It will be chilly in the morning. I wore a long sleeved shirt that I didn't care about. I left it on the road. Marines come by and scoop up the clothing left behind t donate.

Food/drinks at finish - do runners have to pay?
No. There will be thinks like water, bananas, bagels.

Getting home - metro is obviously easiest. Are there shuttles that take runners to certain drop off areas?
No.

Any other suggestions for first timers to a large race, and the MCM/10k in general?

Metro, Metro, Metro.
Enjoy! Pace yourself. Have fun.

[Anonymous]

Sorry, I don't have a lot of your answers but wanted to say - Woohoo!! Congrats, OP!! I've run the MCM 4-5 times and it's the best run with the best crowds!

Here are a few answers for you

- food is free for runners
- no shuttles that I know of, but we walked to Rosslyn or arlington cemetery metro stops.
- I never bag checked, I always ran with a running belt that held all that stuff plus my gu
- tips - it is cool in the morning. Wear a long sleeve shirt that you don't mind stripping off and leaving at the side of the road or handing off to a friend at a specific point in the race. I've also taken cheap gloves. Volunteers pick up the discarded clothes and it all gets donated.
- If people are going to be trying to watch you and cheer you on be as specific as possible about where they should be (side of road). Wear a bright color shirt or hat for easy spotting.
- if you think you will need or want crowd support, write your name on your shirt/arm/leg/bib. Marker, tape. People really do cheer for you. I didn't do that for my first MCM and really wish I had.
- be nice to the military. they are all 'volunteers' and usually show up to the race at 5 for set up.

Good luck! Have fun!

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:Also, what's the incline like for the 14th St. Bridge, compared to running the Woodrow Wilson, or Key bridge? I'm trying to do some hill runs to make my legs ready, but how does it compare? What are the big hill/incline points for the 10k course?

On the 10K, I think the only hill is at the finish but you'll be so pumped that will be easy. The 14th St Bridge is flat like the Key Bridge, no arc like the Wilson Bridge running path. There is a slight grade from 14th St to the 395 HOV lanes but it isn't really a hill.

[Anonymous]

No advice, but I'm running the MCM 10k too. Good luck and have fun!

[Anonymous]

How necessary is it to bring your metrocard? I probably know the answer to this question, but metro will not keep the turnstiles open in the early morning for runners, will they?

[Anonymous]

I'm running the 10k too! How is everyone's training going? Mine has been poor so I need some motivation.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:How necessary is it to bring your metrocard? I probably know the answer to this question, but metro will not keep the turnstiles open in the early morning for runners, will they?

I've run a lot of DC races and have never seen metro keep the turnstiles open. You should definitely have your metro card.

[Anonymous]

NOt running it this year because I was unable to overcome my sloth-like tendencies this summer and can't even blame it on the heat, HOWEVER, just wanted to say that I *love* the MC10k, it is my favorite race of all. There's really a great camaraderie among the runners, and the hundreds of marines lining the course are very cheering. Have a great time!

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:Also, what's the incline like for the 14th St. Bridge, compared to running the Woodrow Wilson, or Key bridge? I'm trying to do some hill runs to make my legs ready, but how does it compare? What are the big hill/incline points for the 10k course?

On the 10K, I think the only hill is at the finish but you'll be so pumped that will be easy. The 14th St Bridge is flat like the Key Bridge, no arc like the Wilson Bridge running path. There is a slight grade from 14th St to the 395 HOV lanes but it isn't really a hill.

+1

[Anonymous]

I have never done the 10k. Although I haven't checked a bag at MCM, I have checked bags for other DC races. It is usually quite a mess and for me adds stress to the before and after. I generally try to avoid checking a bag. I run with a hydration pack and keep my phone/key/money with me (I know, I know). I wear toss-away clothes at the start and for the first mile or so. Afterwards I wear the space blanket if I am cold. I might also have a friend or loved one bring an extra sweatshirt if it is expected to be chilly.

My best tips are if you have people supporting you, plan out ahead of time where you will see them. It makes it easier for everyone. For me as a runner it gives me points to look forward to. "I know I am going to see DH between miles 5 and 6, and 20 and 21." It helps if you know what each other is wearing. Bright colors help. You might even want to have your supporters carry a balloon or other noticeable item.

You should also plan a spot near the finish line to meet up. It can be hard to find each other otherwise. Pick a corner or a landmark. The finish line and getting out of Iwo Jima can be a little crazy. But these are mostly MCM tips versus 10k, I realize. The 10k might be much calmer.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:I'm running the 10k too! How is everyone's training going? Mine has been poor so I need some motivation.

I've been really focused on speed work this summer, and it's finally paying off. Doing a "practice" 10k out in the suburbs this weekend, and then looking forward to an October full of tempo runs and the like. Great luck to you. Hopefully the great weather helps you find some motivation!

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:Also, what's the incline like for the 14th St. Bridge, compared to running the Woodrow Wilson, or Key bridge? I'm trying to do some hill runs to make my legs ready, but how does it compare? What are the big hill/incline points for the 10k course?

On the 10K, I think the only hill is at the finish but you'll be so pumped that will be easy. The 14th St Bridge is flat like the Key Bridge, no arc like the Wilson Bridge running path. There is a slight grade from 14th St to the 395 HOV lanes but it isn't really a hill.

I've done the MCM and the Nations Tri where you have to go over the 14th street bridge. IT IS NOT FLAT. It is a bitch and it goes on what seems to be FOREVER. You'll be fine, but just get mentally prepared b/c you'll want it to be over and if you know it's long, you'll be ready.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:I'm running the 10k too! How is everyone's training going? Mine has been poor so I need some motivation.

I've been really focused on speed work this summer, and it's finally paying off. Doing a "practice" 10k out in the suburbs this weekend, and then looking forward to an October full of tempo runs and the like. Great luck to you. Hopefully the great weather helps you find some motivation!

Thank you! Hope you run a great race.