2019 Allstate Hot Chocolate 15K: San Diego
Summary: I'm officially in love with the 15K! A little more challenging than a 10K, but not as much as a Half! Last year, I wasn't ready for what this course had in store. This year, I arrived well prepared & was awarded with a PR!
Packet PickUp: Hot Chocolate races have the most technology advanced check in system! Bib Numbers are not received before hand, however, you are provided a QR code. You take the code (for iOS users, it hangs out in your Wallet) & walk up to the first available station. The volunteer simply scans your QR code & tada - a little sticker prints out with your Name & Corral Letter which is then affixed to your bib and off you go to pick up your swag at the next station.
(Tip: If you are running more than 1 race - grab a different color hoodie! Since I already had the Wine colored one from San Francisco, this time I requested the 'Mens' hoodie - which is Black. I ordered a size Small & it fits perfectly! Now I have TWO super comfy hoodies!)
In addition to picking up up your bib, you can try on & swap sizes for your hoodie, grab some sweet treats at the chocolate station & keep hydrated at the Nuun Bar.
Usually, I grab my bib & go. But this year, they had a lot of merchandise on sale! Even though the only size they had was XL, I was able to snag a Hot Chocolate branded pullover hoodie for only $15. I wore it after the race on the train ride home - it was so snuggly!
Course Route: This year I was ready for those hills! And it was such a clear, crisp morning that we were able to see so many beautiful views at the top of those hills.
Swag/Extras: Chocolate on the course, Nuun available on course as well as before & after the race, Food Trucks & the legendary HC Finisher's Mug!