Merco Credit Union Half Marathon
Merced, CA
- Half Marathon, 5K
- Road (Paved)
- Official race website
2017 RACE CANCELLED. From race website: “Although we have been privileged to host this event since 2014, a few members of our planning committee had to take a step back from the event. As a result, we simply do not have the internal people-resources that we feel are necessary to … MORE
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Surprisingly Flat and Non-competitive
This is my first time in Merced, CA, the city housing the newest UC campus. The course starts and ends on UC Merced campus. Runners spend first 10k running along … MORE
This is my first time in Merced, CA, the city housing the newest UC campus. The course starts and ends on UC Merced campus. Runners spend first 10k running along road next to open fields. The course is flat and rather boring initially, but the scenery changes when runners enter a bike trail though residential area, eventually back to the campus.
Compare the other races I have been to, the course markings are sufficient, but there surely can use a few improvements along the bike trails due to multiple outlets and lack of course monitor.
Since the course is fairly flat, it’s a fast course. But it rained during my race, so I didn’t managed to PR. However, I still score a second place in my age division and earn an extra medal. However, if you were the age division winner, yous shall receive one of a kind collectible carved river rock. With that being said, I am amazed of the lack of competition for a race held on a college campus like UC Merced.
Overall, it’s an easy course. But the town of Merced is not a very good selling point for a rather ghetto town in my opinion. But if you have heard of the California Half and Full Series, this will give you a lay-back racing experience.