Back to The Santa Rosa Marathon Information & Reviews
Craig Newport from Orangevale, California
(9/2/2009)
"Excellent Inaugural Marathon" (about: 2009)
50+ previous marathons
| 1 The Santa Rosa Marathon
COURSE: 5 ORGANIZATION: 5 FANS: 4 This is a high-quality, small marathon, especially for the first time. I would second everything said by David Bourne. It's not a PR course because of the gravel surface and many 90° and 180° turns going over the bridges. I got a little dizzy. :-) It is very safe because of the absence of motorized traffic, and I would recommend it to anyone not focused totally on setting a PR. With most of the 600 participants opting for the half-marathon, the second loop can get a little lonely if you require other competitors to keep focused. | |
David Bourne from San Luis Obispo, California
(8/31/2009)
"Outstanding Inaugural Marathon" (about: 2009)
50+ previous marathons
COURSE: 5 ORGANIZATION: 5 FANS: 5 This marathon was on a scenic, flat course alongside the Santa Rosa creek. It was basically an out-and-back for the half-marathon, and a double out-and-back for the marathoners. It also consisted of crossing over the creek on pedestrian bridges, or a vehicle overpass with sidewalks. The race director placed a high priority on runner safety, keeping us out of the streets, and marking any impediments on the course to keep anyone from falling or tripping. The RD's communication was excellent: in addition to the marathon website, he sent us emails to ensure that we came to the start well-informed about what was in store. Parking was arranged in a nearby structure. The people at aid stations, the start/finish line, and the bridge-crossing (and other helpers) were consistently smiling, supportive and ready help you be successful. In addition to these volunteers, the spectators - on the overpasses and bridges, and at the start/finish - were not only spectators, but were excellent at keeping us going with their encouragement and clapping. The Adidas t-shirt, the cap, and the unique finisher's medal are very nice and "memorialize" a significant accomplishment. I want to note that this was a very runner-oriented marathon, and a big pat on-the-back goes to the race director Arthor Webb, who very recently completed his 12th consecutive Badwater 135-mile endurance run from Death Valley to the Whitney Portal. Wow! No wonder he is so good at planning and delivering such a fine marathon! | |
M. B. from California
(8/31/2009)
"GREAT event!" (about: 2009)
11-50 previous marathons
COURSE: 5 ORGANIZATION: 5 FANS: 5 I ran the half; the marathon was two loops, so I feel qualified to rate the course. It was beautiful! GREAT tech t-shirt (Adidas!), NEAT medal, and nice hat. GREAT start/finish area. I will definitely do it again next year and bring my friends! |
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