I have run over 50 races, and have never run in West Seattle before! How exciting! I'm sure it's hard to find a route without closing the streets down... that … MORE
I have run over 50 races, and have never run in West Seattle before! How exciting! I’m sure it’s hard to find a route without closing the streets down… that being said, with the amount of people that ran this race (it was sold out and there were wave starts, but it was still too crowded) they should have had a route that had larger places to run! The trails at the beginning, with runners going both ways AND pedestrians, it was crazy.
But you have to give it up to Orca running, I think they were aware of the issues and within a week of the race announced that next year the race will be on 2 days instead of just one! Way to be responsive!! I’m impressed. I hope next year will be much better in terms of crowding!
Their announcement also addressed the other issue I had with the route…. running PAST the finish line (while previous waves were already finishing) and still having 4 miles to go! That was a mind trip and I was not ready for it. BUT Orca announced that next year they are going to have an 8 mile distance! (Most likely eliminating that grueling part of the race where you have to run past the finish).
I wish there was a way to have a half marathon distance without running past the finish line early and watching people already celebrating their finish…. but it was pretty cool to run in West Seattle and have a beautiful view of Seattle at the finish line.
The race shirt and medal are always top of the line with Orca! I live in their race shirts almost every day, they are so soft!
I don’t eat much right after I run, so I don’t mind that there’s not a whole lot of food like I have seen at other races. A banana and lots of water is perfect for me!
Overall, I might pick a different Orca race to run next time. The only reason I would do this race again is to try to beat my time after running past the finish line, haha, I would try to be more prepared for that mental challenge next time!
(Last things! Be aware, especially if your wave is a little later, you will be parking far far away, I had to walk a mile to get to the shuttles. But the shuttles were super fast, I was very impressed I only had to wait a few minutes before loading up). I got there an hour and 15 minutes before my wave time, and barely made it to the start 30 seconds before my wave left. Part of that is because I got lost after the shuttles dropped us off.
Note for Orca…. we need better guidance after the shuttles drop us off! The email instruction showed a straight line arrow from the parking lot to the start, but there was no trail that went along that arrow! There was no one there to tell us where to go, so I (and others) took the closest trail from that arrow, the trail in the middle, and I ended up walking about 1.5 miles before I got to the start, even though the email said .5 miles…
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Great race! But too crowded...
I have run over 50 races, and have never run in West Seattle before! How exciting! I'm sure it's hard to find a route without closing the streets down... that … MORE
I have run over 50 races, and have never run in West Seattle before! How exciting! I’m sure it’s hard to find a route without closing the streets down… that being said, with the amount of people that ran this race (it was sold out and there were wave starts, but it was still too crowded) they should have had a route that had larger places to run! The trails at the beginning, with runners going both ways AND pedestrians, it was crazy.
But you have to give it up to Orca running, I think they were aware of the issues and within a week of the race announced that next year the race will be on 2 days instead of just one! Way to be responsive!! I’m impressed. I hope next year will be much better in terms of crowding!
Their announcement also addressed the other issue I had with the route…. running PAST the finish line (while previous waves were already finishing) and still having 4 miles to go! That was a mind trip and I was not ready for it. BUT Orca announced that next year they are going to have an 8 mile distance! (Most likely eliminating that grueling part of the race where you have to run past the finish).
I wish there was a way to have a half marathon distance without running past the finish line early and watching people already celebrating their finish…. but it was pretty cool to run in West Seattle and have a beautiful view of Seattle at the finish line.
The race shirt and medal are always top of the line with Orca! I live in their race shirts almost every day, they are so soft!
I don’t eat much right after I run, so I don’t mind that there’s not a whole lot of food like I have seen at other races. A banana and lots of water is perfect for me!
Overall, I might pick a different Orca race to run next time. The only reason I would do this race again is to try to beat my time after running past the finish line, haha, I would try to be more prepared for that mental challenge next time!
(Last things! Be aware, especially if your wave is a little later, you will be parking far far away, I had to walk a mile to get to the shuttles. But the shuttles were super fast, I was very impressed I only had to wait a few minutes before loading up). I got there an hour and 15 minutes before my wave time, and barely made it to the start 30 seconds before my wave left. Part of that is because I got lost after the shuttles dropped us off.
Note for Orca…. we need better guidance after the shuttles drop us off! The email instruction showed a straight line arrow from the parking lot to the start, but there was no trail that went along that arrow! There was no one there to tell us where to go, so I (and others) took the closest trail from that arrow, the trail in the middle, and I ended up walking about 1.5 miles before I got to the start, even though the email said .5 miles…
Worse race course and coordination ever!
I’ve ran quite a few half marathons and this by far was the worst. The only positive thing I can think to say is that the scenery was pretty. A … MORE
I’ve ran quite a few half marathons and this by far was the worst. The only positive thing I can think to say is that the scenery was pretty. A bus driver dumped us off in a parking lot and there was no signage or a coordinator to tell us where to go. We followed a of group of people who ended up getting lost trying to find the starting line. We walked around in trees for over a mile and a half. The course started in the trails with the trees, which was OK, but it wasn’t marked. Then the last 10 miles were on sidewalks. Not your normal quality, sidewalks, but ancient sidewalks that were broken, jagged, and in terrible shape. Every block had tree limbs or bushes protruding on the Credi. Sidewalks to where you had to play dodge with the greenery. Runners had to cross major roads and of course you had to cross the street at every block. After 10 miles that got a little old. There was no running on the road. There was no expo, and the finish line was extremely underwhelming. I would not participate in this race again, nor would I suggest anyone run this race. It was extremely disappointing.
Beautiful course and great people
The start line logistics are time consuming, but it’s a wonderful race and I would absolutely do it again! The medal is my favorite ever and the staff do a … MORE
The start line logistics are time consuming, but it’s a wonderful race and I would absolutely do it again! The medal is my favorite ever and the staff do a great job making everything run so smoothly.
First-Timer- great introduction!
This course is a great start for first-timers and those who want a great scenery! The meet and greet to the final finish was superb!! This was my fit 13.1 … MORE
This course is a great start for first-timers and those who want a great scenery! The meet and greet to the final finish was superb!!
This was my fit 13.1 marathon and I am on a high. The course showcased hills, inclined, downhill, dirt, rocks, uneven sidewalks. Overall a great challenge.
The participants were pleasant and encouraging. The people hiring the event – wow- what great support and excellent attitudes! I will recommend this to friends and will book my next event very soon!
Amazing vibes, would run again!
The race starts at Lincoln Park and has two out and backs before 3 miles which can be a little crowded due to runners going in both directions. There's also … MORE
The race starts at Lincoln Park and has two out and backs before 3 miles which can be a little crowded due to runners going in both directions. There’s also a hill around mile 2 which can be somewhat challenging but you are rewarded with a nice downhill so it’s easy to make up time. Miles 4-8 are through nice residential neighborhoods and alongside water so there’s a lot to look around and be distracted by. The aid stations were well stocked and the volunteers were so helpful and cheered a lot as you passed by. Around mile 8/9 you pass by the finish line for an out and back which can be a bit disheartening especially as some part of the out and back is not scenic at all, beside roads with cars zooming past and somewhat of an industrial area. The last mile is so good though as you are on the way back and there’s lots of people cheering as you run past. All in all, loved the vibes and would totally run again even despite the course challenges.
Great race course for newer 1/2 marathon
Enjoyed the scenery. Elevation gains were only rough in the beginning but nothing that I couldn't conquer. I enjoyed the mid point of the race was a gradual down hill. … MORE
Enjoyed the scenery. Elevation gains were only rough in the beginning but nothing that I couldn’t conquer. I enjoyed the mid point of the race was a gradual down hill. Only part I’m not a fan of is the out and back section at the end. It’s cruel to run by the finish line and still have almost 4 miles to go.
Fantastic First Half
-aid stations were awesome and well stocked -a beautiful race, great scenery -pretty much flat -good support from staff and volunteers -friendly and supportive atmosphere MORE
-aid stations were awesome and well stocked
-a beautiful race, great scenery
-pretty much flat
-good support from staff and volunteers
-friendly and supportive atmosphere
That start was a pullback but great end!
Passing the finish line for the last 4miles was both a motivation and demotivating , I wouldn’t prefer that next time though, would rather have a straight line. Great team … MORE
Passing the finish line for the last 4miles was both a motivation and demotivating , I wouldn’t prefer that next time though, would rather have a straight line. Great team supper supportive and everyone kept cheering 😭 . It was beautiful to see!
Favorite Orca Running race so far
I'm a new runner, and this was the third half I've run this year (the other two were also with Orca). This one was by far the most challenging for … MORE
I’m a new runner, and this was the third half I’ve run this year (the other two were also with Orca). This one was by far the most challenging for me as a beginner, but days later I’m still thinking and reminiscing about it. I started out late — finding parking was challenging and we ended up parking farther away than we planned for, and just barely made the last shuttle to the start line. Definitely make sure to arrive early enough to accommodate time for parking and the actual commute to the start line, it takes longer than you’d expect! The course itself was gorgeous, especially the first half as it goes along the water and through beautiful residential areas. Mentally, the course gets pretty challenging from the out-and-back starting at ~8.5 miles to the end. However, it’s that mental challenge that made me feel so accomplished and rewarded at the finish line. I think the race was a great experience and I’m already excited to come back next year.
Didn’t love it
There were some beautiful vistas, but overall the race was much less scenic than I expected. A large portion of the race was through city streets that were not closed … MORE
There were some beautiful vistas, but overall the race was much less scenic than I expected. A large portion of the race was through city streets that were not closed off. The sidewalk was very narrow and frequently one 1 person wide which caused backlogs. I logged 13.2 on my Apple Watch. Not sure if the course distance was off or if I added an additional tenth mile jumping on and off the sidewalk and weaving around traffic. The end of the race was an absolutely awful 4 mile out and back past the finish line. Mentally it sucked running past the finish line and then still having an additional 4 miles to go and it was not a scenic 4 miles. At one point we ran alongside a highway bridge and then behind a bunch of establishments’ dumpsters. The finish line came up very abruptly after a big turn which didn’t allow for much of a sprint to the end and felt very anticlimactic. Would not do this race again.
Nice view while you get your endorphins
This half marathon is really good. The scenery is gorgeous for more than half of the route. It might feel a bit packed at the beginning because you have runners … MORE
This half marathon is really good. The scenery is gorgeous for more than half of the route. It might feel a bit packed at the beginning because you have runners going both ways in small areas. The hydration stations are super well equipped and the swag is beautiful. Can’t wait to run my 3rd one next year.
Runner's high!
This was my first time in any race. Someone gifted me the registration and it was one of the best gifts that I have ever received. The scenery was gorgeous. … MORE
This was my first time in any race. Someone gifted me the registration and it was one of the best gifts that I have ever received. The scenery was gorgeous. The organizers were super friendly and enthusiastic and it is clear that they love what they do. Their support, along with other people cheering along, and of course the support of my family, made my day. The atmosphere of exhilaration from everyone at the end was contagious. Runner’s high for a few hours? Mine lasted for days!!
First Timer - Loved the Orca Half!
Very well organized, great swag and a gorgeous route! The weather couldn’t have been more perfect. I loved running along the water. And appreciate all of the volunteers and race … MORE
Very well organized, great swag and a gorgeous route! The weather couldn’t have been more perfect. I loved running along the water. And appreciate all of the volunteers and race organizers cheering us on. This was my first half marathon and it definitely made me want to try another and also come back for this one next year.
Best Views
This is such a pretty run - great view of Puget Sound and wonderful overall experience. Ample water stations and directions, the course is well marked and the pre-race directions … MORE
This is such a pretty run – great view of Puget Sound and wonderful overall experience. Ample water stations and directions, the course is well marked and the pre-race directions were helpful and spot on! Thank you for a wonderful morning
Great scenic Seattle race
Taking place in mid-September, you're likely to get decent weather for the Orca Half. Light rain is not unusual, but it's very unlikely you'll get poured on the whole time, … MORE
Taking place in mid-September, you’re likely to get decent weather for the Orca Half. Light rain is not unusual, but it’s very unlikely you’ll get poured on the whole time, and it’s also likely to be just right in terms of temperature – not too hot, not too cold.
The race has 300 feet of elevation gain, mostly round early on with a major hill from 1.5 mi to 2.5 mi. Also, there were no cups provided at the race, so it’s not a great PR option as you’ll lose a couple minutes either stopping at aid stations or carrying (heavy) water. However, it’s a great race to run just for fun or as a training run and generally comes with a nice medal.
The course is point-to-point and you take buses from W. Seattle to the start. The busing has been very well organized the two years I’ve run the race.
Great!
Great course nice views fairly easy run with only a few hills. I had a great time with another fun run Orca does a great job with their events. Great … MORE
Great course nice views fairly easy run with only a few hills. I had a great time with another fun run Orca does a great job with their events. Great swag I love the shirt and the medal. I highly recommend any Orca Running event fun running great courses at an awesome high level of production with great swag.
LOVE this race!
This race is one of my favorites! I love it so much that I ran the Blowhole Challenge 2021, running the race back to back on Sat/Sun. Both days were … MORE
This race is one of my favorites! I love it so much that I ran the Blowhole Challenge 2021, running the race back to back on Sat/Sun. Both days were great! The first 3 miles are in a park/trail environment that included a hill. That part was a little difficult for me as I lean more towards road than trail. But the rest of the race is beautiful and mostly flat. Everyone who works the race, crew and volunteers, are extremely nice and the swag is fabulous! Highly recommend for all runners!
Fabulous Half On the Seattle Waterfront!
This was my first Orca Running event, and it couldn't have been any better! The course was extremely scenic; starting in the lovely forested Lincoln Park ( which does have … MORE
This was my first Orca Running event, and it couldn’t have been any better!
The course was extremely scenic; starting in the lovely forested Lincoln Park ( which does have some slight hills for the first few miles), to the nice flat stretches along Alki beach, and then ending the race with a magnificent view of the Seattle skyline at Don Armeni boat ramp, it was a great course! Orca running definitely puts on a wonderful and well organized race! This years medal, which was designed by a PNW artist, and the matching soft and cozy race tee, are great mementos as well! Would definitely do this half again 😁👍!!!
Great scenery and staff!
The organizational staff of this race is awesome. Everyone is very informed and can answer any question, or point you to someone that can answer questions. They are also really, … MORE
The organizational staff of this race is awesome. Everyone is very informed and can answer any question, or point you to someone that can answer questions. They are also really, really friendly! The course has amazing views along the water. Beware of a few small but steep hills during the opening miles — after that is it flat and fast. Amazing finisher medals as well!
Beautiful, well organized race!
The organization on this race was incredible, not to mention the beach views! From the pre-race communication to post-race food, it was smooth sailing MORE
The organization on this race was incredible, not to mention the beach views! From the pre-race communication to post-race food, it was smooth sailing