I found this race by searching for half marathons in my area to match specific weekends of my full marathon training schedule. The course was fast, flat and along the Richmond Bay Marina on a sunny Saturday so it couldn't have been more perfect.

I was not able to attend bib pickup as I work 8-5pm 2 hours away and the pickups closed by 7pm on Thursday and 4pm on Friday. It would have been a bit nicer to have a later bib pickup, but I understand they may have not had many people coming from that far out of town.

I knew I would have to arrive early to get my bib, so we got there at 7:15 for an 8am start. The road leading from town to the marina is about a half mile long but only 1 lane, which resulted in quite a large line of cars trying to get in at 7:50am. In addition, the trains coming through town blocked the one lane in to the marina, resulting in more delays for drivers. I know there were some half marathoners out there who were unable to start on time because of this reason. Not to mention, the port-a-potty restrooms were placed on the sidewalk BEFORE the entrance of the parking lot, so you had cars trying to maneuver around lines of people in the street waiting to use the restroom. This would have frustrated me had I not gotten there as early as I did, and Brazen may want to address this issue at future races.

I ran the half marathon, which started at 8am. The 10k followed at 8:15am and the 5k race began at 8:30. The races were well staggered, the starting line was not too crowded and the announcers were loud enough to hear for a few blocks. It was an out and back course that took you along the Richmond Bay Marina to Golden Gate Fields racetrack and back. The course was mostly flat and paved, however only wide enough for 3-4 people at a time. Runners were advised to not travel in packs or run 3 people wide to allow for passers, and overall I did not run into an issue with not being able to get around anyone. It is a public pathway, so there were other runners, walkers and families with strollers out along the paths enjoying a Saturday morning stroll. There was a brief (approx 1/2 mile) single track trail course at the turnaround point, but otherwise it was mostly cement and asphalt.

There were 5 or 6 restrooms areas and aid stations throughout the half marathon course, which is more than plenty and I'm sure greatly appreciated. I did not stop at the aid stations as I carry my fluids and fuel, however I did see a variety of water, electrolytes, snacks, candy, chips, fruit, etc at each stations. Brazen typically does a good job of providing good food and refreshments at each of their races.

All in all, I truly enjoyed this race, I ran it just un 2 hours and 10 minutes. I must give props to the Tri Valley pacers who were there, they all finished EXACTLY on time and were friendly, smiling faces at each interaction. I will definitely be back next year for this race and I will look into a few more hosted by Brazen.

My only gripe about this race was the start line. However, this affected my entire experience of this race, and I hope it is something they work to improve next year as this was the inaugural event.

Several hundred people of all pace levels (walkers, strollers, etc) were crowded at the start line and took off at the same time. We were about 3/4 of the way back and walked for at least a mile until the crowd thinned out. Because this race took place on single track running trails with chest-high foliage on either side of us, it was impossible to pass the walkers.

Other than the start line debacle (which cost me quite a bit of time), the food, music and people were wonderful. I would have liked to see more than 2 aid stations or 1 bathroom stop for an 11 mile race, but given the location it was obvious there weren't many location options for the race committee.
I would love to see the race committee implement staggered race starts based on pace for future events of this race!

I live in Sacramento & chose to drive up the morning of the race. I got there about 45 minutes before race time & had plenty of free parking options within a 3-4 block radius. Because I drove the day of, I paid the $10 to have my packet mailed to me, best decision ever!

The start line was set up with pace corrals, and the wristband you received directed you to the appropriate starting corral with people of your same pace. This allowed for a smooth, spaced out start that enabled me to pass other runners/walkers as needed.

The course was an out and back along Embarcadero street in San Francisco with a finish along the back of AT&T Park's waterfront and finally, onto the left field warning track. The infield of the stadium was roped off to protect the field, but most of the outfield grass was available for stretching,relaxing, and the necessary selfie for a Giants fan like me!

My only confusion with this race, was that it was the last stop in the Giant Race series for 2016. This meant any awards/medals you earned for completing certain races were given out. All email instructions said to go up the stairs to retrieve your awards, but the stairs led to the concession stands and several exits. There were no signs directing you to the section of the awards. After bugging several employees and wandering aimlessly, I found the section I needed, got my swag and headed home.

I can't say enough for the positive atmosphere I always experience at these races; from the volunteers, to the aid station crews, to the fellow runners- everyone seems to be having a good time and is genuinely happy to be in attendance and it creates a great, welcoming vibe!

This Giant Race was held in San Jose near the single A ballpark affiliate of the San Francisco Giants. The start line was lively with a DJ and an announcer that played good music and pumped up the crowd before the run.

The course was mostly around the ballpark and through the local zoo which was quiet, pretty & allowed for a lot of space between runners. The finish line took you onto the ballfield where there was a large expo of snacks, vendors and entertainment.

I can't find anything to say about these Giant Races as I feel they are well staffed, carefully thought out and extremely positive atmospheres. They welcome families and runners of all ages, sizes and speeds and everyone seems to have common courtesy and running etiquette at all events. Will continue doing these races for sure!

Another great race put on by the Giant Race team. 3 race options; a 5k, 10k or 10k relay. The 10k was basically 2 of the 5k loops and the elevation was fairly flat with some small hills to climb. This race starts in front of Raley Field, home of the AAA Sacramento Rivercats team. You will run along the riverfront on paved bike paths, through a small neighborhood and back to Raley Field. You will end up finishing on the warning track near center-left field. It's wonderful to finish on the field and look up at the stands for a different perspective.
I loved this race because the proceeds go to the Jr. Giants Organization and all aid stations and cheering sections contained members of the Jr. Giants rooting you on. It was great to see the actual children who would benefit from the money raised at the event.
My only gripe would be that the lines to get snacks, refreshments or free food were way too long and too unorganized. I ended up just walking back to my car where I always keep a few snacks just in case. Love this race and will continue to do as many as I can!