Was a last minute decision to run this. The race was on my birthday so I decided to do something "fun" to start the day. Also, been warming up for … MORE
Was a last minute decision to run this. The race was on my birthday so I decided to do something “fun” to start the day. Also, been warming up for my prep towards the Full marathon in SF in July so thought this would be a good test to benchmark where I am currently
The bib pickup was smooth, though low key, considering how expensive the sign up fee is.
Now to the raceday: The aid stations were well managed and adequately spaced. The course itself is very scenic if you are coming from out of town. I live in the neighborhood, so pretty much it is my daily run. Thoroughly enjoyed it, primarily because it was my birthday 🎂. The headwinds coupled with the rain as we turned onto the Great Highway were brutal. Cost me my PR.
Could have been better: Expo and the Finish Line Festival. Everything was low key. Overall had the feeling of a local club run than a major race. Which is not necessarily a bad thing. Now, only if the pricing was sub $100, it would make this race much more attractive
Birthday Half Marathon
Was a last minute decision to run this. The race was on my birthday so I decided to do something "fun" to start the day. Also, been warming up for … MORE
Was a last minute decision to run this. The race was on my birthday so I decided to do something “fun” to start the day. Also, been warming up for my prep towards the Full marathon in SF in July so thought this would be a good test to benchmark where I am currently
The bib pickup was smooth, though low key, considering how expensive the sign up fee is.
Now to the raceday: The aid stations were well managed and adequately spaced. The course itself is very scenic if you are coming from out of town. I live in the neighborhood, so pretty much it is my daily run. Thoroughly enjoyed it, primarily because it was my birthday 🎂. The headwinds coupled with the rain as we turned onto the Great Highway were brutal. Cost me my PR.
Could have been better: Expo and the Finish Line Festival. Everything was low key. Overall had the feeling of a local club run than a major race. Which is not necessarily a bad thing. Now, only if the pricing was sub $100, it would make this race much more attractive
Great race despite the weather!
This was my first half marathon (and first race of any kind) so I don't have much to compare it to but here's my first timer impression– overall it was … MORE
This was my first half marathon (and first race of any kind) so I don’t have much to compare it to but here’s my first timer impression– overall it was a blast, with great scenery, well run, and the only downside being the weather. It felt like a friendly supportive crowd of racers – not unserious or rowdy but not too intense either. The course and scenery through the panhandle and GG park is great and makes the miles fly by and really feel like an enjoyable exhilarating run! The main downside was the weather – less the rain but the wind, which was like 18mph from the south, so when you turned onto Ocean Blvd. at mile 8 it was like hitting a wall. It felt like running uphill for 2.5 mi, going all out sprinting just to maintain my earlier warmup pace, and the lack of landmarks along Ocean Blvd also made it hard to know when it would end… But then when you turn the corner and head north again you had the wind at your back and that was of course super welcome, but overall it would have been much more enjoyable (and a more successful pace) without the wind. Obviously the race orgs can’t control the weather so no shade to them, just something to be aware of as a potential big challenge – one I was not prepared for! Overall though, great race and plan to do it again next year!
Beautiful SF scenery with every step!
Golden Gate Park - the trees, the ponds, the fresh air oh my! Every step you take through the park will bring a smile to your face. The distance traveled … MORE
Golden Gate Park – the trees, the ponds, the fresh air oh my! Every step you take through the park will bring a smile to your face. The distance traveled shortens the beauty of the eye can see. I will be back!
Wonderful race with some great scenery!
The course was flat and I think the net elevation was actually negative. Made for a great time and it was cool running through the park and by the ocean. … MORE
The course was flat and I think the net elevation was actually negative. Made for a great time and it was cool running through the park and by the ocean. Conditions were very tough (wind and rain), but that’s never in control. I’d run the course again!
First half ever. Great experience
While the headwind on the beach highway was tough, it was overall a great course. It was very pretty and didn't have too much uphill. Production was great. There was … MORE
While the headwind on the beach highway was tough, it was overall a great course. It was very pretty and didn’t have too much uphill. Production was great. There was adequate water stations along the way, and it seems like they put a good deal of effort into making sure everything went smoothly.
Great Run, Epic Weather, Ready for 2026
I ran the SF Half with joy, grit, and the stubborn determination only cold rain could test. So, like the Scissor Sisters song says, I showed up at the finish … MORE
I ran the SF Half with joy, grit, and the stubborn determination only cold rain could test. So, like the Scissor Sisters song says, I showed up at the finish line looking like a “drowned, harassed rat”—but with a huge smile.
From the seamless bib pick-up to the brave volunteers cheering through the relentless rain, this run was a testament to strong community spirit. The scenic course offered plenty of highlights, and despite my drenched shoes, it remains an absolute favorite.
I’ll definitely be back for 2026, hoping for better weather but just as much excitement.
One of the highlights of my life
I’m an avid hiker but I don’t like running. This was my first time try for a run and i absolutely loved it. I have already signed up for next … MORE
I’m an avid hiker but I don’t like running. This was my first time try for a run and i absolutely loved it. I have already signed up for next half marathon in June. I’m becoming a marathon maniac!!
for profit, careless & disorganized
I wanted to love this race and there were exciting aspects but none of that had to do with the race production itself! they had sent out a lot of … MORE
I wanted to love this race and there were exciting aspects but none of that had to do with the race production itself! they had sent out a lot of communication but little details about post race “festival”. The maps didn’t even show where the post race festival— it was just a cluster of mess at the end finish line. I saw water, JAMBAR and some prebiotic drinks and blankets but that was about it. apparently the finisher shirts were down closer to the beach which was a ways away from the finish. I also was t able to get my post race finisher shirt (that you pay for) and i reached out to see if i could get it mailed and they said they can’t?! Didn’t say why. Also I went back after the race to find the shirts and they packed up SO fast and the park clean up with there by 11:30-12. insane. — SOO where do the extra shirts go after the race? There wasn’t a corral specification for runners so you could have started wherever which was even more of a cluster f. Even more money hungry of them — the photos you have to pay $50-100 for just the digital downloads without a water mark! INSANE. The race clearly is just profiting money from all these runners and gets away with doing very little. also can anyone explain why bib pick up was not in the SF presidio sports basement but instead all these runners way at Stonestown galleria?? And why is there a bib pick up to just get a generic bib (ex no name or specific corral designation). the course itself is kinda boring for SF, i run GG park all the time so I was just bored. I think with all that money they could have more entertainment or something through out? The 10k and Half start at 8 am which is kinda late IMO.
Organized, easy 5K. Would do again.
Parking is a nightmare! Expected given it is the Golden Gate Park. Race started at exactly 7:50am and I arrived in the nick of time. Parked a mile away and … MORE
Parking is a nightmare! Expected given it is the Golden Gate Park. Race started at exactly 7:50am and I arrived in the nick of time. Parked a mile away and ran to the park as my warm up. The race was well organized and the route was easy and light. Would recommend. I will try to run the half marathon next year.
Great choice for 1st half
This was my first "real" half marathon race after the race was cancelled last year. The course was excellently marked, with people cheering all throughout and aid stations well positioned. … MORE
This was my first “real” half marathon race after the race was cancelled last year. The course was excellently marked, with people cheering all throughout and aid stations well positioned. Even with the mediocre weather, it was so much fun to be with the crowd and running along with everyone else (7500+ runners this year for all three distances!).
I only wish that the post-race exit from all the swag was closer to the entrance and starting line. I had to walk quite a ways to get back to my car, but I also might have missed a shuttle.
I really enjoy the whole process
The event is well-organized, ensuring a smooth experience for all participants. The course is designed with thoughtful elevation changes that are neither too steep nor too flat, making it ideal … MORE
The event is well-organized, ensuring a smooth experience for all participants. The course is designed with thoughtful elevation changes that are neither too steep nor too flat, making it ideal for first-time runners looking to challenge themselves without feeling overwhelmed. The well-planned layout allows runners to maintain a steady pace while gradually adapting to the race environment. Additionally, the route provides a balanced mix of terrain, giving participants a chance to experience a variety of running conditions. Clear signage, hydration stations at strategic points, and enthusiastic volunteers further enhance the race experience. The event fosters a supportive atmosphere where beginners can gain confidence, while more experienced runners can still find the course engaging. With its combination of good organization and carefully planned elevation, this race provides an excellent introduction to competitive running for those taking on their first challenge.
Bad weather but overall great experience
The weather conditions were not ideal (the rain and wind were pretty crazy), but overall it was a great first time experience and the course was GORGEOUS! I love Golden … MORE
The weather conditions were not ideal (the rain and wind were pretty crazy), but overall it was a great first time experience and the course was GORGEOUS! I love Golden Gate Park and I’m glad many people got to see its beauty too!
Fun race, bad production
I think they could've done better labeling the course. There were many times when the mileage mark was not there, and I was confused how far we had ran. I … MORE
I think they could’ve done better labeling the course. There were many times when the mileage mark was not there, and I was confused how far we had ran. I personally thought the SF marathon was much better and I don’t think I will be doing this race again.
Super wet but super rewarding
Incline was not terrible, overall very pleasant experience minus the rain and weather conditions. Was my first time running it and I'd definitely do it again. MORE
Incline was not terrible, overall very pleasant experience minus the rain and weather conditions. Was my first time running it and I’d definitely do it again.
Great course, but weather is iffy
- good, flat-ish course, slight rolling hills - Achilles race, so inspiring to see blind and deaf runners - weather can be wet and windy this time of the year MORE
– good, flat-ish course, slight rolling hills
– Achilles race, so inspiring to see blind and deaf runners
– weather can be wet and windy this time of the year
Best Half Ever!
I’ve been doing this race for over a decade, and it keeps me coming back! It’s a fast, scenic course, and though the weather is a mixed bag these days, … MORE
I’ve been doing this race for over a decade, and it keeps me coming back! It’s a fast, scenic course, and though the weather is a mixed bag these days, it never disappoints!
Race was amazing besides the weather!
This course was great! The weather this year was less than ideal but the scenic route through Golden Gate Park and Ocean Beach was hard to beat. The race communication … MORE
This course was great! The weather this year was less than ideal but the scenic route through Golden Gate Park and Ocean Beach was hard to beat. The race communication and staff was amazing and I would definitely recommend this race.
Very nice route and scenery!
Beautiful route. I parked south of Golden Gate Park near the start of the race. There was a shuttle after the race but it only ran along the north side … MORE
Beautiful route. I parked south of Golden Gate Park near the start of the race. There was a shuttle after the race but it only ran along the north side of the park. I wish they would have had a shuttle running along the south side of the park too. With where the race finished, you would have to walk all the way north to the shuttle and then have to walk south to my car.
Beautiful course
Although it was challenging due to high winds and rain, I loved this race! I power walked and got a personal best. Walkers expect things to be closed down by … MORE
Although it was challenging due to high winds and rain, I loved this race! I power walked and got a personal best. Walkers expect things to be closed down by the time we finish but it’s disappointing when that’s the case. The finish line stated it would be open for 4 hours so when I finished at 3:08 most things were already put away, this could be due to weather but not sure. Definitely a race I want to do again, just a crap shoot with weather being the first weekend in Feb. Absolutely loved going through the park and along the Great Highway. Gorgeous!!!!
Everything ran smoothly
Overall the race production ran smoothly. The expo/bib pick up was easy but was a little confused why clear bags weren't given then. I brought my own bag that got … MORE
Overall the race production ran smoothly. The expo/bib pick up was easy but was a little confused why clear bags weren’t given then. I brought my own bag that got ruined in the rain but would have used the clear bag if it was provided at the expo. The race started on time, but the post race vendor area was a little odd. The weather conditions were rough but that can’t be controlled. I’m glad the race still happened and somehow managed a pr.