The Santa Rosa marathon takes place in wine country during August. Since I paid to have my bib mailed to me, I didn’t attend the expo. I drove to Santa Rosa (about an 80 mile drive) early race morning and had no problem finding the start area or parking. There were only short lines at the portapotties and the runners gathered in a square field until lining up to start. The weather was cool and the race had an early start so as to beat the August heat that was sure to come later. Management did a great job with everything from registration to timing. The first ten miles have a slight decline. It was quite foggy and the wet air felt great (although my hair had never been so knotted lol). Most of the race takes place on a bike path with the exception of running through a winery and a few miles on back roads. I remember there being hills around mile 12-14, then a slight incline on the last 8-10 miles. It got pretty hot by mile 16-17 and by mile 20 I’m pretty sure a volunteer handing me a ice pop saved my life! :) The volunteers were great and the aid stations were fully stocked. In addition, locals set up there own tables in front of their houses with refreshments and fuel!! One had cold water with lemon that was sooo good! Photographers were at various places on course, especially at the winery. The finish area was festive with all kinds of snacks (watermelon was the best), drinks, pancakes, beer, etc... I collected my free beer glass to sample libations from the beer festival that coincided with finishing. I also loved all the swag from this race! Customized wine bottle, running jacket (rather than another shirt), and beautiful medal. I recommend this race if you don’t mind a little heat. The course and swag definitely make it worth a little sweat.