This was my first marathon, in 2015. While I think it could be a fun course for someone visiting SF to see the highlights of the city, I run parts of this course on a regular basis so didn't get the same "wow" factor from the views. This race is solidly "okay" — I would consider running it again, but I'm not dying to either. The shirt offered is nothing special, the early start time means almost no spectator support, and the miles in the park after mile 13 are tedious and seem to drag on forever. Once you leave Golden Gate Park, the course scenery is underwhelming—just a slog down Haight street as you make your way east, shuffling through the (torturous) sights and smells of people in Potrero Hill brunching outside, and the beer-scented no man's land that is the Dogpatch. I've run the first half twice, and recommend that race much more, as the course offers nothing particularly special in the final 13.1. Would I recommend this race? Maybe. If you're an SF local who wants to run a marathon and cannot travel, this is your only option and it's not a terrible one, and if you're visiting from out of town, it'll take you on a decent tour of the city. Are there better marathon options for people in SF willing to drive a few hours? Absolutely.