The Asheville Marathon and Half Marathon at the Biltmore Estate takes place in March. This year I had the pleasure of being able to complete the race as an ambassador. My husband and I made the 8 hour drive from Washington DC to Asheville, NC the Thursday before the race. We’d heard such great things about the area and wanted to be able to explore a bit before the race. Thankfully, the hubby wasn’t running this race so he was the driver to and from North Carolina.

We spent Friday exploring Downtown Asheville. We shopped, ate, and drank in the city and it was glorious. Friday evening our good friends made the trip down to run the race as well.  On Saturday we woke up early to hit Biscuit Head, the expo, then visit Biltmore Estate. At the Expo, I picked up my tech tee, buff, and bib. I also decided to purchase 2 bottles of the specialty bottled race wine from Biltmore.

Fun Fact: If you’re over 21, you’re Biltmore entrance includes a wine tasting… AMAZING!!

The Asheville Half Marathon was one of the most beautiful courses I have ever run. The entire estate is closed off in the early AM for runners. The race was run very well and was definitely different from the more urban course I usually run around Washington DC. I took over 90 photos on the course that day. So instead of my usual recap, I decided to make a slideshow of the race. Hopefully, this will give a better feel for the race.

Overall this was a fun race. I got to join a friend of mine for his very first half marathon on a truly visually stunning course. The boutique race included a long sleeve tech tee, race buff, embroidered fleece blanket and unique wooden medal. I enjoyed my experience in Asheville and would recommend this race to everyone.

Disclaimer: I was provided a complimentary race entry to Asheville Marathon & Half Marathon, but all opinions are my own!

Have you ever run in Asheville before? Ever been to Biltmore? What do you think of the slideshow… better with more pictures? & What was your first half marathon?