Latest reviews by Sarah

(2014)
"Scenic "
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Lots of positives, and a few negatives:

Pro: Beautiful course to run in the fall, which goes up a trail. Miles 2-17, and 19-24 are all on gravel. I liked that, because it was easier on my body for the 26 miles. But generally, tree-lined trail, lots of pretty reds/orange leaves, and some ponds. I liked how quiet and friendly the race was, and the people running it were hugely supportive. Good enough aid stations too.

Cons: Beginning pre-race area was a bit crazy. Had to park elsewhere and shuttle to the start line. Aid stations were not as organized - sometimes grabbed water instead of gatorade, or vice versa, because different people held different things. One station was totally self-serve. Didn't like that the course took us right past the finish line at mile 18. Mentally that was tough. Only swag was a cheap half zip, which was just made of t-shirt material. Will end up using it as a throw-away at another race.

Overall, I had a huge PR in this race, so I cant be really upset. I would maybe run it again, for the atmosphere and trail setting.

I did not run the half marathon, but everybody started at the same time, and the course for the half took them at a nice and easy out 6.5 miles, and back in 6.5 miles.

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(2014)
"2014 13.1 Half"
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Ran this race today in Chicago on a 65+ degree morning. The course was good, it snaked through Jackson Park before ending up on the Lakefront Trail for miles 4-13. It might have lacked some shade on this hot morning, and there were some ever-so-slight hills that were tough for tired legs.

Mile markers were off, according to my, and a friends Garmin watches. The worst part of the race was the finish line- I was expecting the finish line to be the same as the start line, so picked up the pace as I rounded the final corner- No finish line. The finish line had moved about .25 miles down the path. Made me really frustrated, as I was already not having a great race.

Medical and aid were great. Lots of aid stations, which was helpful, and I also had to stop at the med tent at the finish line and they were helpful in getting me up and feeling better.

I'd recommend this race, it was a nice course and a nice (but warm) day.

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(2014)
"Everybody should race in SF once"
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What an incredible race.

First part- the start line. This race was not as huge as some other ones I've done, and yet, the start line was well stocked with bathrooms, water, and snacks. And plenty of room to move around. The music was pumping everybody up.

The race: I went into this race knowing where the hills would be, and about how long they'd last. While I did not by any means train on hills, they were not THAT BAD. Plus, as the race states "The views are worth the climb." And are they ever. Miles 4-7 had us going up and across the Golden Gate. We ran through some beautiful neighborhoods, by the water front, and finally towards downtown. I cannot say enough good things about the course. I didn't pay much attention to aid stations, but I'm sure they were fine. It was not too hot outside either.

Finish line: Lots of snacks, and a cool concert to finish it up.

The way you can tell how great a race is, is how easily it passes. And this one flew by. I would race this one again, no question. Very well organized and executed.

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(2014)
"Good neighborhood race"
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If you're looking for a simple 5k, this one's for you. Nothing is over-the-top, but that's what kind of made this race great. The field is pretty competitive, and the first mile is pretty packed. You'll be dodging in-and-out of runners, so make sure you're in a correct start corral. Lots of turns throughout the course, but the finish came up fast. Like I said, no bells and whistles for this race, but plan a brunch with your fellow runner friends afterwards and it's guaranteed to be a great morning.

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