This was my first time running the Wild Horses race put on by Titanium Racing, but I knew it would be a good race because I previously ran the Tiburon half marathon. There was no Expo, and bib pick-up happened in two locations (one in Novato, and one in the East Bay for those of us who didn't want to make the long drive twice). Swag pickup happened pre-race (for the shirt and matching bag), and after the race there were goodie bags filled with snacks and drinks from the sponsors, including Whole Foods.

Like the other Titanium Racing series races, there was a small field. Small enough that there are no corrals, you just place yourself appropriately--and everyone did. (This is a huge blessing; for those who haven't done massive races like those at Disney, there is always someone desperate to be in a lower corral number who then ends up being an obstacle and a road hazard). The small field also meant that there was plenty of parking near and at the high school where the race started/ended.

The course was an out-and-back through neighborhoods and park-like settings in Novato. This year we had some overcast weather at the beginning, which was great--by the end it was sunny, and quite hot. While I didn't see any wild horses, I did see several domesticated ones who seemed to be enjoying the parade of people. Locals were amused as I photographed their livestock.

Aid stations were well-attended by friendly volunteers and had water and electrolytes. Multiple stations had gels (in multiple flavors). There were volunteers or staff at every potentially tricky turn, and the course was well-signed, so there was no excuse to get lost.

While the course was mostly flat, there were some hillier areas--nothing that made me gasp in awe at the degree of elevation, more like "gently rolling hills."

One thing I LOVED about this race: treatment of back-of-the-packers. I finished like third to last or second to last. The course ends with a "victory lap" around the school's track. There were staff (and a very energetic kid!) there to run the last finishers in. While the post-race snacks were a little picked over--the popcorn bowl was empty--there was still cold water, cold Nuun, and a goodie bag for each runner.

Overall, I enjoyed this race thoroughly. The course was pretty, the other runners were well-behaved, and the staff and volunteers were invested in making sure the runners had a good time.

For pictures, check out my blog review: http://www.trainwithbain.com/wild-horses-2015/