Jonathan S.'s profile

   

I have done this race three or four time now and I keep coming back to it because I love the course. I have done several other half marathons in the area and this race definitely has the best course setup. Overall there course is relatively flat excluding four or five short ascents which are all shorter than a minute. The course also turns to a dirt trail halfway through the race as you run along the shoreline cliffs. This race has the feel of a small town race even though there are a lot of runners. If live in the San Jose area and are only doing one half marathon this year skip the SJ rock and roll and go to the Santa Cruz Half Marathon.

   

I did this race as a for fun race. Being for out of town the scenery at this race is amazing! There also aren't too many triathlons nearby that have a relatively flat course which is also a big plus. Overall the only negative thing I have to say is the race was a little unorganized and chaotic during some parts of the bike ride. Overall I would recommending it / do it again.

   

Did this race a couple of years ago and loved it! That being said I would like to pass along a few pearls of wisdom I learned from my experience. First off, do not rely on family members to pass along all pertinent information (ie don’t let them con you into thinking you have months to train when you really only have three weeks; we bought our passes from people who bailed). Second, bring your bike shoes and helmet – you will need these; especially since you probably don’t have a sister in law who will run up and down the lines of tents at three in the morning finding you extra shoes and a helmet. Third, train for the event – it is a long way to the finish and there are many hills in between. Fourth, did I mention remember your shoes. It’s no fun biking in shoes three sizes too small! The scenery is amazing on this ride. The road is in good condition for the first four passes which are closed to car traffic. The fifth pass is along the hwy (on the shoulder) where the road conditions deteriorate somewhat. The aid stations are well stocked and in good locations. Overall I thought this was an excellent race.

   

I have run this race three years now. The first year I ran the race it was great! Tons of people cheering along the race course, the bands were good, and there were lots of impromptu DJs and cheering squads as well. Since then the “Rock n Roll” part of the race has gone down hill. The third year I actually brought my ipod as there was hardly any music. Pros: The course is very flat Temperature is all three years has been almost perfect The water stands Cons: The “Rock n Roll” aspect of the race Very crowded Overall Assessment- Average