Memorial Bataan Death March

From a spectators perspective, the Memorial Bataan Death March in New Mexico is executed well. Enough so, that I don't mind going every year, spending the night, and hanging out at White Sands all day (normally I wouldn't want to be at White Sands because there really isn't anything to do, but during the MBDM, there's a lot more going on).Packet pick up is always the day before and some people camp out. We decided to camp out this year and I definitely recommend doing so if you're more than thirty minutes away because waking up super early the day of and then trying to find parking before the event is no fun. Camping, however, is fun. They allow tens and RVs (bring a generator though) and there is no fee to camp. There are a lot of grassy areas with tall trees and shade to choose from and there's a playground for the kiddos.During packet pick up and at the finishers area, there are different booths around. Cool to check out, you'll go home with at least a few free shirts or pens. Every year we make a stop at this one booth during pick up that will frame your participation medal along with a MBDM commemorative medal.This year since we camped out, we went to the pasta dinner the night before. It was buffet style... not a ton of options, but still enjoyable. They had two different types of pasta, penne and spaghetti, two different sauces, alfredo and marinara, garlic bread, and a salad bar. Just a nice environment to talk to friends and meet new people. They have a few other pre-event festivities so you just have to take a look at the schedule.I'm sure we'll be coming to this event year after year and who knows... maybe one year I'll actually participate (that Southwest sun is not my friend though, so it would have to be a super gloomy day). The MBDM is organized well and it seems like they're starting to add more activities for both the participants and the spectators.

Do it! You will be moved. I supported a friend about ten years ago, when she coerced me to at least walk the March. (I'm not a runner.) I was so impressed, that 10 years later, I brought my fiancé to do it with me again. He, too was moved & found it very much worth while. Whether you are a runner, jogger, walker... do your research and you will not be disappointed.