The Gold Coast Marathon Race Expo 2016

Hello from the Gold Coast and welcome to the Gold Coast Marathon expo 2016. We made our way to Broadbeach convention centre (the last stop on the 777 bus (left)) to collect our bibs and bobs. It was an interesting experience at the race bib collection area. I might have queued at a line happened to be manned by a particularly grumpy lady. I was collecting the bibs for two of my other friends, and she demanded that I show her proof that they want me to collect their bibs! Perhaps it was the rule or something but I have never had anyone demanding such documentation. Lucky for me my friends did email/message so politely to collect their bibs on their behalf...

The most ironic thing was - she didn't check my ID when I collect my own bib. Now that is confusing.

Anyway, moving on to the next part of the expo is to collect our Pace our Race Bands and safety pins for our bibs:

   

We had to present our QR codes that came through our registration for the band. Once we find that, scan and a band comes out. Personally I don't use the band but it is a nice reading for me to calm my nerves before the race. It becomes more of a souvenir for me.

   

Straight after the Asics sponsored Pace Band counter is the Asics counter with lots of Asics stuff for sale. Personally I find their stuff fairly average...and prices way above average.We got to taste what we will be given to drink on course tomorrow. Endura. I tried that pineapple one which they labelled it will be the race drink...It tasted like diluted cough syrup. I hope they won't serve this flavour...

This wall was my favourite part of the expo. This was where they placed everyone's name, in alphabetical order, onto the banner. It wasn't too difficult to spot mine. We were meant to find our name, and I am glad they have lined up all our names in alphabetical order.

The expo overall is not too bad. It's fairly basic and does the job. There are some good stores and some good bargains (e.g. I saw some race belts for $10 and bottles for $3). I wasn't keen to buy anything as I can only do a carry-on bag, but it is a potential haven for bargain hunters.

Afterward we made a beeline to our apartment at the Q1 on Surfers Paradise. (my review is here) It was the tallest building in Australia at one stage, but now it is only the tallest on Surfers. Nice apartment with lots of natural light which I liked. The Pool is nice too, but it's really just for the eyes only. Unless, of course, you would like to give the 'ice bucket' challenge a go, hotel pool style.

The weather is expected to be a pleasant 10C tomorrow. I am glad. Everything has gone right so far so I believe tomorrow will be no exception.