Pittsburgh Marathon Expo and VIP Event

I was excited to get early VIP entry into the Expo this year as a blogger, because it gave me a chance to buy all the things.  Quickly.

First up I found Brandi which was awesome.

Next year is going to be the 10th anniversary of the race returning to Pittsburgh.  Also awesome.

Shopping was a thing after we picked up bibs and race shirts. I had to get the new SJ Sports Jewelry charms to add to my collection from last year.

There was also a rather fine shirt I wanted to pick up from P3R before they sold out.  I order my SCRR stuff from them which I always love.

Fleet Feet and nuun were on hand to help me out with some race day supplies.  I was not allowed to buy anything else after that.  Dick's had a range of T's and hats I had my eye on.

We had fun with the giant 26.2 and the race name wall.  (What? He does motivate me).

I did not buy shoes, I consider this a remarkable feat of self control.  Dick's Sporting Goods did send me these fab Brooks Launch 4's designed just for the marathon before we left and I refused to take them off all week. 

Let's do this!

Later on in the evening we went to the VIP event where Merril Hoge was guest speaker, it was pretty awesome even if I did have to wear a dress and proper shoes. There was a silent auction and speed painter all to benefit Sports Matter.  It was a lot of fun.  Huge thanks to P3R and Dick's for the invite.

Merril is a former Pittsburgh Steeler, which is impressive to me just in itself.  He spoke about 'being uncommon' and my favourite thing 'find a way'. My other favourite thing of the night was Tony's bow tie, it's cool.

Official PGH Bloggers: Chelsea, me, Tony, Brandi

I really enjoyed meeting everyone.  It was pouring rain when we left, but I was too focused on getting those shoes off to care too much. 

Next up - 5k!