This was my first large scale marathon/half marathon. There were 1,473 marathon finishers and 7,894 half finishers. Both lengths started together at 7:15 with rolling wave starts, seemed to work … MORE
This was my first large scale marathon/half marathon. There were 1,473 marathon finishers and 7,894 half finishers. Both lengths started together at 7:15 with rolling wave starts, seemed to work well for me but next time I will wait to start my watch, it wanted to go to energy save at least twice. I enjoyed standing around before the start, with that many people eager to run.
Both lengths shared the same route for 11 miles, the old downtown sections mainly, north of the freeway. Then the marathon went thru older residential areas and a nice greenway south of the freeway. The weather was warm, 69 at the start and mid 70s by noon, but fortunately there was a morning fog type cloud cover that really helped keep the heat off.
This seemed like a post Covid effort with the RnR folks on their way back but understandably not there yet. But there were bands and water stations every mile it seemed like, and to me that was a big change from my previous races of less than 120 marathon finishers, and all I needed.
It was a very enjoyable time for me, especially since I got to run 11 miles with my daughter who was running the half. The road surfaces were fine, nothing too rough. Course was well marked and shut off from traffic. The start and finish were close enough together. There were plenty of hotels within walking distance to choose from. They even managed to get the shirts for the finish, a huge effort I imagine since they stuck offshore in a ship at one point. Ascent was 823 ft on my watch.
I had a great time but I liked what I was doing, even though once again the heat slowed me down. This is a very recommendable race.
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Fun way to see some of San Antonio
This was my first large scale marathon/half marathon. There were 1,473 marathon finishers and 7,894 half finishers. Both lengths started together at 7:15 with rolling wave starts, seemed to work … MORE
This was my first large scale marathon/half marathon. There were 1,473 marathon finishers and 7,894 half finishers. Both lengths started together at 7:15 with rolling wave starts, seemed to work well for me but next time I will wait to start my watch, it wanted to go to energy save at least twice. I enjoyed standing around before the start, with that many people eager to run.
Both lengths shared the same route for 11 miles, the old downtown sections mainly, north of the freeway. Then the marathon went thru older residential areas and a nice greenway south of the freeway. The weather was warm, 69 at the start and mid 70s by noon, but fortunately there was a morning fog type cloud cover that really helped keep the heat off.
This seemed like a post Covid effort with the RnR folks on their way back but understandably not there yet. But there were bands and water stations every mile it seemed like, and to me that was a big change from my previous races of less than 120 marathon finishers, and all I needed.
It was a very enjoyable time for me, especially since I got to run 11 miles with my daughter who was running the half. The road surfaces were fine, nothing too rough. Course was well marked and shut off from traffic. The start and finish were close enough together. There were plenty of hotels within walking distance to choose from. They even managed to get the shirts for the finish, a huge effort I imagine since they stuck offshore in a ship at one point. Ascent was 823 ft on my watch.
I had a great time but I liked what I was doing, even though once again the heat slowed me down. This is a very recommendable race.
Disappointing
This race could be so much better! It started out with the notification that the shirts would not be available at packet pick up and MAYBE after the race. The … MORE
This race could be so much better! It started out with the notification that the shirts would not be available at packet pick up and MAYBE after the race. The expo was bare bones. I have been to better ones at local races. This is a big time running company. It should be better. Moving to race day- I never rank down for weather but it was hot and humid. I have been at races not this bad that we’re yellow and red flagged but there was no safety communication outside a text a few days early saying it would be hot. The race started late. It was supposed to start at 7:15. I had to move up a few corrals because I was placed in the final corral even though I submitted a time to be placed much better. I finally started at 7:55. They were using a rolling start and sending runners off 12 at a time. That’s ok but let runners know they don’t need to show up at a normal early time. San Antonio is a beautiful city but we didn’t run through any of the interesting parts of it. The best part was the blue mile (mile 6) where the soldiers who died in battle were remembered. Also, San Antonio is hilly. After the race we got our shirts (most of us as they ran out). They were basic black with white ink. Again, I have gotten much better shirts at local races with smaller budgets. The medal was a typical Rock ‘n’ Roll medal. It’s nice but smaller. Rock ‘n’ Roll has gone down tremendously in production value. The crew at the start showed no emotion and the announcer was absent at the finish. It also looked like they had a few water stops that ran out at various spots on course. I’m a mid pack runner so I feel bad for those in the back. The volunteers were amazing though. I love the city and it was a great place ti visit but I won’t be doing this race again.
RnR San Antonio-Choice December Race
Rock and Roll San Antonio is a nice option to the traditional Jingle Bell Runs of December. There are a variety of distances and the unique culture and music of … MORE
Rock and Roll San Antonio is a nice option to the traditional Jingle Bell Runs of December. There are a variety of distances and the unique culture and music of San Antonio is present throughout the course and race. Mild temperatures, flat course make for a fast day. Unfortunately the course is visually uninteresting-it needs more historic sites like the Alamo or the San Antonio missions. Still San Antonio is a fun weekend with delicious Mexican food, the beauty of the downtown River Walk decorated for Christmas, and family activities (Sea World, Six Flags) on a non-run day. Rock and Roll Series are well-run races with plenty of water stops, port-a-potties, and post-race festivities.
It was a long time ago
I remember it was a typical Rock n Roll marathon with good music. It was pretty flat and I think I set a PR there at the time I wasn't … MORE
I remember it was a typical Rock n Roll marathon with good music. It was pretty flat and I think I set a PR there at the time I wasn’t running my fastest.
Hill Train for This One
They changed the route from the last time I had run this race and this added quite a few steep hills which I was not ready for. Heard a lot … MORE
They changed the route from the last time I had run this race and this added quite a few steep hills which I was not ready for. Heard a lot of comments during the route of disgruntled individuals especially specifically on one particular hill near Fort Sam Houston area.
There were some nice scenic areas though through parks and neighborhoods and enjoyed the part where we ran face to face with runners on a turnaround area, giving high fives, smiles and the “man” nod to those able to participate.
Looking forward to 2021’s and personally just hope they go back to the route they ran in 2014.
Great Experience!
My first out of state race. It was awesome. Fly in, 15min uber ride to downtown hotel, did the 5k and half which started and ended in 4 different spots … MORE
My first out of state race. It was awesome. Fly in, 15min uber ride to downtown hotel, did the 5k and half which started and ended in 4 different spots downtown and all walkable. Its a huge race so you can’t get lost to the start or from the finish. Not much scenery. Only one hill that had an effect on me. Expo great, spent lots of money. Love RNR races!
Don’t see much of the city, but good
Most of the marathon is run through neighborhoods and a city park, don’t see the sites of San Antonio at all. Rock and roll production is always great. Hotels walking … MORE
Most of the marathon is run through neighborhoods and a city park, don’t see the sites of San Antonio at all. Rock and roll production is always great. Hotels walking distance from start and finish
San Antonio Marathon
Started in downtown with the 1/2 marathon runners, wave start but not by pace so for the first 12 miles lots of runners. After we split the course was neighborhoods … MORE
Started in downtown with the 1/2 marathon runners, wave start but not by pace so for the first 12 miles lots of runners. After we split the course was neighborhoods and parks. Very good police support, enjoyed all aspects but it was hot for me and the density of runners kept me off rhythm which triggered my asthma. Loved the blue mile around mile 5. Very inspiring to see the pictures of those who gave their lives along with the vets holding the Flag. Loved the music and the city, great weekend.
Average race
This was my 4th time running this race and the 4th different course route. This year's course was good for the first couple of miles running through downtown then it … MORE
This was my 4th time running this race and the 4th different course route. This year’s course was good for the first couple of miles running through downtown then it was nothing special the rest of the way with the exception of a mile long stretch that honored fallin local military soldiers. This stretch was very touching and hope this continues in future races.The expo was nothing special and post race nutrition was poor. The medal and shirt were low quality. Unfortunately this seems to be the new norm for Rock n Roll races.
Very Patriotic!
Loved this race - it was very well organized - course was mostly flat - scenery was just ok - sad that we didn't run by the Alamo. The absolute … MORE
Loved this race – it was very well organized – course was mostly flat – scenery was just ok – sad that we didn’t run by the Alamo. The absolute best part was the 1/2 mile run through a park where about every 6 feet there was someone holding an American flag on both sides – also with pictures of veterans who had died from that area. Made me so proud to be part of such a great country – I could have run for miles through that! Best expo with lots of purchase choices. Host hotel was right at the start line. Only negative – the race finished at a park that was a little far from the start – had to walk a long way to get back to the hotel and no pre-race meal options. Overall it was a great race!
A solid marathon
A few hills but not too bad (Total elevation gain less than 777ft over 26.2 miles) The most moving part was the blue mile (tribute to fallen service members) Course … MORE
A few hills but not too bad (Total elevation gain less than 777ft over 26.2 miles)
The most moving part was the blue mile (tribute to fallen service members)
Course not that scenic overall but a few sections in the parks were nice
Well organized and aid stations well stocked and many over the course
San Antonio is a fun place to visit so nice destination marathon
Great destination race
The course itself is mostly flat with the exception of a long hill at apprx 6.5 miles and a few other small hills sprinkled in during the last miles of … MORE
The course itself is mostly flat with the exception of a long hill at apprx 6.5 miles and a few other small hills sprinkled in during the last miles of the half. Running through the military mile was especially somber with the photos of the fallen displayed on the sides of the road. A lot of twists and turns on the course as you wind through various neighborhoods. Support on the course was good. Only real complaint was the ugly shirt. Lol If you’re looking for a good destination race this is a good choice. San Antonio is a fun city with a lot to offer and you can’t beat the nice December weather.
WILL PASS ON FUTURE RACES
Parking is a joke. You are forced to go downtown to pickup your bib and parking is a nightmare. If you park at the ALAMODOME , after your race you … MORE
Parking is a joke. You are forced to go downtown to pickup your bib and parking is a nightmare. If you park at the ALAMODOME , after your race you will be a mile away. The majority of the people do the 1/2 marathon and barely over 1000 people do the marathon. This is a rock n roll marathon but bands are few in btw. Will never run here again. Total joke
Great Course
I really enjoyed this course, while it had a few minor hills, it have some beautiful views. This year was warm, and course offered minimal shade. For me I think … MORE
I really enjoyed this course, while it had a few minor hills, it have some beautiful views. This year was warm, and course offered minimal shade. For me I think it was one of the better RNR courses that I have done. The metal was nice, but not TEXAS sized as one would think. Expo was just okay. I feel it had great community support, and a fun after party.
3rd Time
This was my final Rock & Roll race for the year achieving Hall of Fame status. This was my third time at this race over the years. I had not … MORE
This was my final Rock & Roll race for the year achieving Hall of Fame status. This was my third time at this race over the years. I had not experienced this version of the course before. It was a much flatter route than in years past but I miss having the route go right in front of the Alamo. The VIP pass was fun to have and the hotel rooftop terrace was a great place to relax after the race. I love the whole San Antonio experience.
Not my Favourite race
The weather was not the greatest for this race, cold, wind and heavy rains so there was no scenery to be had. The hills started to come in at almost … MORE
The weather was not the greatest for this race, cold, wind and heavy rains so there was no scenery to be had. The hills started to come in at almost the very end when my legs were going numb on the course. Not many bands playing probably due to the weather. This also happened at the time of the Vegas shooting so at the start you could see the heavy police presence as well as the overhead copters
There was a huge amount of people so the start was very much swaggered.
Love San Antonio
I loved running in San Antonio, this was my 15th rock n roll half marathon this year and I can really see the effects of the Ironman organization now owning … MORE
I loved running in San Antonio, this was my 15th rock n roll half marathon this year and I can really see the effects of the Ironman organization now owning this. I won’t be running this series next year. It is a shame. Glad I did this before the change happened.
Entertaining event
This was my first RnR Series event. It’s definitely well-organized and fairly well supported along the course. The race was tough for me since it was a little warm (66 … MORE
This was my first RnR Series event. It’s definitely well-organized and fairly well supported along the course.
The race was tough for me since it was a little warm (66 degrees and 100% humidity). When it first started drizzling, I wasn’t hating it because it was somewhat cooling. But then it poured (at mile 1.7 for me), so I had to finish my race soaking wet. Of all the items being sold at the finish line, there was not a dry pair of socks to me found. Oh well. It was still a 9-minute PR for me.
All of the hills were in the last 3 miles of the half. There was also a very moving “run to remember” mile lined with volunteers with American flags and the pictures of fallen soldiers. Very nice.
Of course, the big draw for the RnR series is the on-course entertainment and finish line concerts. San Antonio doesn’t draw big-name concerts like other cities, but it’s still a nice feature.
The expo was well-organized and easy to navigate. The on-course support was certainly adequate. The finish line area was a bit tough for spectators, but RnR is adding bleachers in 2018, so that’s nice.
Price is a little high, but you get a lot for that if you value the entertainment. (Register early to save some serious dough.) The highlight for me was a high five from and a picture with Meb at the finish line. He ran his own event for fun, but stood out there for hours congratulating finishers. Such a gracious ambassador for the sport. Katherine was there also, but I didn’t run into her.
Typical RnR produciton
This was my third time running RnR San Antonio and on the third different course. This years course started right above the River Walk, went through parts of the downtown … MORE
This was my third time running RnR San Antonio and on the third different course. This years course started right above the River Walk, went through parts of the downtown area, including in front of the Alamo just after mile 3. Then headed north through the Arts district towards Breckenridge park before heading back towards downtown. I enjoyed the route much this year, compared to the other two years. A couple nasty hills between mile 10 and 11 made for a nice challenge. Finish line area and festival was a couple blocks from the start line, and easy walking distance for everyone staying in the downtown area.
13.1 Miles of San Antonio
Great event. I ran the 10K the previous day so this is my second day of running. We stayed downtown so we were five minutes from the expo, five minutes … MORE
Great event. I ran the 10K the previous day so this is my second day of running. We stayed downtown so we were five minutes from the expo, five minutes from the start line, and five minutes from the finish line (walking time). Great location. The expo was your standard expo to pickup bib, tshirt, and various vendors onsite.
This was a multi distance event both a fill and half marathon this morning. I ran the half. They had a corral start and held each corral about one minute apart from the other. I thought it was a good course, mostly flat through the first 9 to 10 miles then the last few miles had some hills that you had to navigate. Of course it being a RNR there were lots of bands and music along the course and lots of things to see, buildings, parks, blue mile, good crowd support, and great volunteers. This was one of the better events i have run.
The finish line area was good. pIck up your medal, pose for a photo or two, get some drinks, snacks, cool down and pickup your challenge medal if you ran two races that weekend, then hang out if you wish. Awesome event, great location, i would run this one again if I am looking for one to run next year around this time.