Latest reviews by Amanda TheSwagMama

(2016)
"Flat Course - Great Scenery!"
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This 5k/10k race was held during Super Bowl weekend in Mission Bay. It was a fairly small race - no expo beforehand - packet pickup was the morning of the race. There were two options for parking: you could park very close to the race, but would not be able to leave until the event was over; or you could park about 1/2 mile up the road and walk over. I found this race through Groupon, so I got a good deal that included chip timing, a tech t-shirt and a medal. The race course was mostly flat with some great views of the bay. Not a whole lot was going on after the race. There were only two or three vendor tables set up, but everyone was very friendly and helpful. I ran this with my double Bob stroller and even my kids received medals. Overall, it was a nice race and I feel that I was satisfied with the event especially for the price!

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(2015)
"FUN Run!"
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EDIT: This review is for the 2015 run! This is a FUN run! Emphasis on the word "FUN"! The event is held in the parking lot of Qualcomm Stadium, so not much scenery and watch out for potholes; however, lots of free parking. It is also not a timed race and not a true 5k, so I wouldn't recommend this run for any competitive folks. But lots of energy, sweet swag, and a fun DJ that gets you pumped! It's a great race to do with friends or kids as you will feel like you are at a party rather than a race!

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(2015)
"Great Race! Great Cause!"
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This is not just a race, it is a festival for the entire family to enjoy! It is held in Mission Bay during March/April, so it isn't too hot yet and the views are beautiful. It's a mostly flat, paved course that loops around Fiesta Island and offers good course support. I registered when they were doing a flash sale, but there are usually promo codes for this race which makes it a budget friendly event. Parking is free, but the later you arrive the further you will have to park. Packet pick-up is available the day before in Pacific Beach or the morning of the race, and includes a chip-timed bib and a t-shirt. The race itself is family friendly and even offers a stroller division with its own awards category and a fun run for the kids. The post-race festival includes a finisher medal; beer/wine garden (you receive a free drink with your registration); fruit/bagels/water; several vendor booths passing out lots of swag; a bounce house and fun activities for the kiddos; a playground; fun music; photo booth and more! The race benefits the autism care and treatment (ACT) of military families and you also have the option to become a fundraiser for the event. Overall, it's a great event that's fun for the whole family!

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(2014)
"Great event to inspire young girls!"
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I joined this race as a running buddy - meaning I was paired up with a grade school girl to motivate her throughout the 5k. As a running buddy, I paid $20 and I was randomly connected to my little running buddy. There was the option to give a school or student preference, but since I didn't know anyone personally in this group I chose to be randomly paired up. There is also a required background check if you choose to be a running buddy, but it is quick and free. You do have the option to run this event with your family rather than be a buddy, which is also another way to show support for this organization.
I arrived early to pick up my shirt and bib and locate my school group. Everything is pretty organized and the schools are roped off into different areas around the venue with signs so you can find each group easily. There were lots of volunteers and they were super helpful and friendly.
The event had lots of energy and there was a group warm-up and stretch prior to the start of the run. The race started in waves so that the kids didn't get trampled and then we were off! This is an untimed event as the goal is just to encourage others to finish the run rather than compete. It was a wonderful experience to encourage not just the buddy I was paired up with, but also to encourage others who were running along with me. The race is held in NTC Park in Point Loma in May and there is also one in December. The course is flat and easy and has some great views. The course route is a giant circle around the park and you run it about two and a half times.
It's a pretty crowded race with some fairly narrow paths, so while you could bring strollers, I would suggest to stay in the back. Note: They prefer you not to bring your own children if you register as a buddy so that you can focus on your partner. After the race, you get your medal, water and fruit, then you can checkout the vendors and take pics in the photo booth. This particular year had a tutu theme, so everyone wore a tutu and they absolutely loved it! Your registrations also included a virtual race bag where I received a free year of a magazine subscription.
Overall, this is a great event to support a great cause. These girls train for several months to prepare for this 5k so it truly is a joy to encourage them and watch them achieve their goal of crossing that finish line!

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(2014)
"Great Race!"
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This was my first half marathon and I absolutely loved it! It included a fun Expo the day before along with great course support on race day. It is a mostly flat race through scenic downtown San Diego, but does include one large hill (Washington Street) on mile 9. My only complaint was finding parking, although parking in general is difficult all over San Diego. I ended up finding parking for $10 fairly close to the start line. I loved all of the swag: tech shirt, drawstring bag, reusable grocery bag, and amazing medal! The race ends in historic Gaslamp District with an amazing party full of food, beer and tons of energy. The race is held in March which means it isn't too hot yet and even chilly in the morning. This race is also part of the "Mammoth Challenge" which means that if you complete this race along with the Mammoth Half in June, you will also receive an additional extra-large medal! I would definitely recommend this race to anyone looking for a fun and mostly flat half marathon in San Diego.

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