The weather predicted unusually HOT temperatures on race day.
With a 7:45 am race start time, I was nervous about the heat.
I drove down on Saturday morning and was able to check into my hotel early.
After some shopping, I headed over to the Expo to pick up my packet.
The expo was HUGE!
There were lots of big names there… Running Skirts, ProCompression and Nuun, were a few of my personal favorites.
I received a cute long sleeved tech shirt, my bib and a decorative race bag.
After the expo, I headed home and got myself situated
I headed over to the starting line around 6:30 am and could not believe the number of people who were running this race.
There were atleast 15,000 people.
Woah dang.
The elevation chart shows that there is a fairly steady incline but it’s relatively flat-ish.
In my opinion, the course is more “rolling hills” than anything.
None of the hills were too difficult.
The ocean breeze was very welcoming as it started to get hot around 9 am.
There were aid stations at every mile (or so), which was very much appreciated.
Most races don’t have that many aid stations, so I was very impressed!
The majority of the race is along Highway 1 and the views are gorgeous!
Seriously gorgeous.
I enjoyed every second of this race.
There were a LOT of people, but it was well organized and staffed appropriately to meet everyone’s needs.
The race swag was great as well.
I loved the “I ran this beach” shirt, and the medal was HUGE!
I also received my California Dreamin’ medal… so I walked away from this race with some serious bling!
I definitely plan to run this one again.
See you next year Surf City!