| 2024 | 2023 | 2022 | 2021 | 2020 | |
| H (°F) | 64 | 70 | 77 | 68 | 78 |
| L (°F) | 45 | 56 | 59 | 51 | 51 |
Well organized race. The initial uphill at high grade is a challenge. The steep downhill towards the end is tough as well. I was not as prepared for the inclines … MORE
Well organized race. The initial uphill at high grade is a challenge. The steep downhill towards the end is tough as well. I was not as prepared for the inclines as I should have been. Ran with cramping calves the last 2.5 miles. Still, overall an enjoyable experience and worth it.
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Overall a very fun race. One longer climb to start but isn’t terribly steep. Most of the course is in the shade. My garmin had the distance closer to 14 … MORE
Overall a very fun race. One longer climb to start but isn’t terribly steep. Most of the course is in the shade. My garmin had the distance closer to 14 mi.
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A beautiful trail race with high elevation. Very tough. Also a very well organized course. Aid stations and support was awesome. Overall, the event was a great first time experience … MORE
A beautiful trail race with high elevation. Very tough. Also a very well organized course. Aid stations and support was awesome. Overall, the event was a great first time experience for me.
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Third time running this 5k. This race takes place at beautiful Sanborn Park in Saratoga. This course include a mix of fire roads, single track, and many switchbacks. There are … MORE
Third time running this 5k. This race takes place at beautiful Sanborn Park in Saratoga. This course include a mix of fire roads, single track, and many switchbacks. There are also a lot of exposed roots and rocks. You definitely have to pay attention during this race. This race is one big uphill of 775′ to the turnaround at the one and only aid station for the 5k. It’s then downhill to the finish. The run is mostly under tree canopy with some exposed areas, but definitely scenic and enjoyable, if you like hills.
The aid station had friendly volunteers and was well stocked with water, sports drink, gels, pretzels, candy, and fruit. The course was well marked.
Brazen Racing’s shirts and medals are always first rate and these did not disappoint.The medal and shirt were great.
Finish line food consisted of the usual pretzels, candy, bagels, pastries, fruit, chips, and It’s It ice cream sandwiches.
All runners received a cotton or tech shirt depending on which race they ran.
Maybe, I’ll give the 10k a try next year. We’ll see.
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Great race but those first 3 miles are no joke. They kicked my butt and made me cry, lol. Once you get to the top it feels like your running … MORE
Great race but those first 3 miles are no joke. They kicked my butt and made me cry, lol. Once you get to the top it feels like your running on the forest moon of Endor. The only disappointment Brazen cant control is the mountain bikers. Some of the bikers are inconsiderate and try to ride on the single track when its packed with runners and get upset cause they cant fo their normal ride on this one day.
To be honest, I've personally always hated this course but, Brazen Racing always does an amazing job hosting this race in beautiful "Slugatoga". Very well marked, beautiful views . . … MORE
To be honest, I’ve personally always hated this course but, Brazen Racing always does an amazing job hosting this race in beautiful “Slugatoga”. Very well marked, beautiful views . . . But just watch out for those darn rocks/hidden ditches. Rolled over my ankle by the house that is about .5 miles away from the finish line . . . BUT! I still finished. 🙂
This was my first time running with Brazen and everything about the race was awesome. Bib & swag pick-up was very efficient, there were plenty of restrooms for everyone, and … MORE
This was my first time running with Brazen and everything about the race was awesome. Bib & swag pick-up was very efficient, there were plenty of restrooms for everyone, and there was a large variety of snacks and ice cream after the race.
The race itself was pretty tough as it involved a brutal stretch of uphill running for about a mile (though felt like an eternity) and the narrow trail made it so that there are single file lines of people walking for good chunks of the race. Once you make it up, there’s a aid station with water/gatorade/snacks to help you refuel before you start the run down, treading carefully as you pass by the people still making their way up.
Overall, this is a great race for anyone looking to challenge themselves with a tough hill run and I’m looking forward to trying the 10K or Half version next year.
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This is a beautiful course through a redwood forest. Course markings were very clear. Aid stations were great. Pre-race instructions were helpful. Brazen always does a fantastic job. Low key … MORE
This is a beautiful course through a redwood forest. Course markings were very clear. Aid stations were great. Pre-race instructions were helpful. Brazen always does a fantastic job. Low key and a great atmosphere.
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As a repeat runner, I'll admit that I used to HATE this course. (Only because I hit a rock going downhill and almost fell of the cliff if I didn't … MORE
As a repeat runner, I’ll admit that I used to HATE this course. (Only because I hit a rock going downhill and almost fell of the cliff if I didn’t catch my balance.) Now, this is one of my favorite courses because it does help you prepare for some of the harder trail races (in my opinion) like tge Wildcat and Rocky Ridge courses. The scencery is absolutely breath taking here! Just watch out for bee hives because they are in the area, but the bees won’t bother you if you don’t bother them. 😉
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What's not to like about Brazen Races. They have a 1/2M, 10k, and 5k ... something for everyone. If you want to hike the 1/2M, you can start an hour … MORE
What’s not to like about Brazen Races. They have a 1/2M, 10k, and 5k … something for everyone. If you want to hike the 1/2M, you can start an hour early. Of course, then you can’t win or place in any age group but, maybe you’re there just to have fun and stay fit. If you are competitive, they do have some very talented runners attend their events.
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Second time running this 5k. This race takes place at beautiful Sanborn Park in Saratoga. This course include a mix of fire roads, single track, and many switchbacks. There are … MORE
Second time running this 5k. This race takes place at beautiful Sanborn Park in Saratoga. This course include a mix of fire roads, single track, and many switchbacks. There are also a lot of exposed roots and rocks. You definitely have to pay attention during this race. This race is one big uphill of 775′ to the turnaround at the one and only aid station for the 5k. It’s then downhill to the finish. The run is mostly under tree canopy with some exposed areas, but definitely scenic and enjoyable, if you like hills.
The aid station had friendly volunteers and was well stocked with water, sports drink, gels, pretzels, candy, and fruit. The course was well marked.
Brazen Racing’s shirts and medals are always first rate and these did not disappoint. The medals was large and the Slugzilla on the medal has a rubbery texture to it. It was nicely done.
Finish line food consisted of the usual pretzels, candy, bagels, pastries, fruit, chips, Pirate’s Booty, and It’s It ice cream sandwiches.
All runners received a cotton or tech shirt depending on which race they ran.
I also scored a second place age group medal.
Will certainly run this race again. Heck, I just might try the 10k next year.
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The usual easy bib pickup you experience with Brazen races. Whether its early bib pickup or quickly getting your bib on race day. Sanborn Park is beautiful and for this … MORE
The usual easy bib pickup you experience with Brazen races. Whether its early bib pickup or quickly getting your bib on race day. Sanborn Park is beautiful and for this race it was pretty cool whether as well. If you have never been to the park even if you’re not going to do any of the runs I would recommend checking it out. It one of those hidden places that if you never had a reason to go there you would not know about it.
This is my 3rd race at Sanborn, it’s tough no matter which race you run. I did the 10k today and honestly this is one of the most challenging of the Brazen races for me. Some of the others feel worse because of hot temperatures but this one wins hands down (besides the Double Dipsea) for climb and technically challenging train run.
You start out with a nice run into the redwoods it seems idyllic you meander to that first upward switch back I was thinking maybe it will be easier this time, ya know you have been training, running hills I feel good! Well at least for me by the ½ mile I was walking the uphill’s and running where I could. This continued for the first three miles. There is an aid station at around 1.4 I stopped got some water and continued alternating between a “fast” walk and slow jog. The trail is pretty there are redwoods and you’re in the forest for sure. You have to watch your footing plenty of rocks, tree limbs, roots and a few steps should ensure you focus on where you put your feet. I did see a couple of people being lead gingerly back to the start after twisting ankles.
At the turn around pretty much spot on at 3.1 you begin your trek back down, again you have to watch your footing, you should try and let people know your coming as well. A lot of telling people “on your right” and “thank you” felt appropriate along with letting some of the faster down-hillers pass me by. The first mile and ½ down at least its only fellow 10K’ers you run into but after you hit the aid station your now running with some of the slower 5K runners/walkers (hikers really!). So, attention to the trail was most important for me.
I finished in the top 3 in my age group so I am really pleased with my time, the refreshments were the usual high standard and the medals were awesome and slugworth! All said if your wanting a challenging and technical trail run that well done or you just want to have a great hike and a beautiful location I would highly recommend this race. Just be careful, let people know you’re coming and be respectful of your fellow hiker/walker/runners!
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This was a pretty challenging run for me to choose for my first ever happened marathon. So. Much. Uphill. The track itself is gorgeous but you don't get much of … MORE
This was a pretty challenging run for me to choose for my first ever happened marathon. So. Much. Uphill.
The track itself is gorgeous but you don’t get much of a view, which is what I was hoping for!
The event ran smoothly and was well organised with lots of friendly people. Not too big crowd-wise, so it was comfortable on the trails.
I’d definitely do this run again, I want to improve my time!
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First time running the Trailquake and I chose the 5k. This race is tough. It goes uphill for the first half and downhill for the last half. Total elevation gain … MORE
First time running the Trailquake and I chose the 5k. This race is tough. It goes uphill for the first half and downhill for the last half. Total elevation gain is 775ft. The downhill is very technical with a lot of switchbacks. I wiped out on the way down. Not sure what i tripped over, but I was on the ground before I knew it. Got scraped up fairly well. I had about a mile to the finish and Brazen does have a medic at the finish to clean and bandage your wounds. The course is mostly single track through the forests in Saratoga. It’s very pretty, The mascot for this race is the slug. I did feel like I was slugging along at times. I did win 3rd in my age group for the 5k. Sweet! Speaking of sweet, the finisher’s medal was adorable, nice shirt, the aid station were plentifully stocked, and the food at the finish line had the usually salty and sweet treats. You get an It’s-It at the finish, too. My husband ran the 10k which has about 1900ft of elevation. He said it was the hardest 10k he had even done. Next year, I’m running the half, I think.
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This is one of my favorite races. It's a doozy of a climb, but it's so cool! It starts and ends at Sanborn Park in Saratoga. The starting area is … MORE
This is one of my favorite races. It’s a doozy of a climb, but it’s so cool! It starts and ends at Sanborn Park in Saratoga. The starting area is small which I really like. It’s a bit more intimate than others. This year I decided to do the 10k instead of the half marathon. It’s a pretty tough 10k, coming in with just below 2,000 feet of elevation gain (1,846′). It starts off on a nature trail before joining the Peterson Memorial Trail for a short bit. This then joins the Sanborn Trail and continues the climb up to Skyline trail. 10K runners turn around at this point (aid station #1), heading back down the Sanborn Trail, meeting with the San Andreas Trail. This year there was also a small loop added (the extra loop is fun, about .5 miles, and about 200 feet of gain in the first .2 miles of this). The first half of this race is all uphill basically, so it’s a ton of fun to run down the second half. 🙂 Be careful though. There is some technical trails, and there are roots and rocks. Also, there is a great deal of shade on this course (which is awesome!) but the bits of sun rays that come through the trees can cause issues with seeing some parts of the trail at times. Just take it easy. No need to wear sunglasses on this course (for me).
The weather this year was warm, and felt a bit humid. Also, there were some mosquitos at the start, but of course Brazen took care of this by having Yoly walk around offering to spray folks with mosquito repellent.
As always, Brazen is the best of the best. Great medal, shirt, course, everything. Thanks again Brazen.
-Streaker #111
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I participated this year in the half marathon even though I had torn my glute muscles the previous week, with the plan to go slowly and just finish. I really … MORE
I participated this year in the half marathon even though I had torn my glute muscles the previous week, with the plan to go slowly and just finish. I really enjoy the challenge of the initial climb, and the whole course is beautiful forest. I warn people to be careful because the the dappled light makes it hard to read the rocks, roots and twigs on the trail. Once you get to the top of the starting climb, there are some very runnable sections with some gentle down-hills on soft dirt where you can really fly. The last part is very steep, where the most caution is warranted, but can be quite fast as well. This year had the most mosquitoes of any place I have been. Repellent was provided at the start, but I will put more on next year! The weather was not as hot as predicted, so this was one of the most enjoyable treks I have had this year.
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This was a pretty standard Brazen race, in terms of production, swag, scenery, etc. It was also par for the course with regard to course difficulty. Slow and steady is … MORE
This was a pretty standard Brazen race, in terms of production, swag, scenery, etc. It was also par for the course with regard to course difficulty. Slow and steady is pretty much the only way to get through the climbs, since you need to save your legs for the flat/downhill.
I would venture to say it was maybe smaller than their usual events with regard to attendance, though that may just be because the 5Ks are less popular, and I just didn’t know.
While the race was fun as ever, it was not for the faint of heart- I love that they warned people at the starting line that they may regret signing up for a trail run. Though said in jest, it was probably too true for some people. The race started with a pretty mean climb, which I’m guessing was a surprise for quite a few participants. However, Brazen being the thoughtful producers that they are, did put an aid station at the top, which was a total life/sanity saver. The volunteers were super encouraging, and it made the sprint back down the hill that much more doable.
On a final note, it was a great race for people who want to explore a little more of the bay area. Saratoga isn’t a place that tops my list of towns to see on a weekend, but it was fun to visit since I was racing in the town anyway!
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This race was extremely tough. The first 2.5 miles or so are uphill and then the next 8 are up and down. Thankfully the last few are downhill! It's a … MORE
This race was extremely tough. The first 2.5 miles or so are uphill and then the next 8 are up and down. Thankfully the last few are downhill! It’s a very covered course with all of the trees and so scenic which makes it worth it. The only portion of the course that’s really exposed is in the last mile. Very difficult though. Not a good race to do when you have plans that day!
Like every other Brazen race, there’s a great shirt and of course an amazing medal. The aid stations have the best volunteers and there course is marked very well.
Limited parking so get there early!
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very very tough course. so many steep hills and very narrow course. difficult to pass each other on the road and sometimes it can be dangerous. maybe it's not for … MORE
very very tough course. so many steep hills and very narrow course. difficult to pass each other on the road and sometimes it can be dangerous. maybe it’s not for beginners.
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this race boasts a difficult and scenic course with banana slugs. As we are in a major drought my guess is that the critters were hiding somewhere else. You would … MORE
this race boasts a difficult and scenic course with banana slugs. As we are in a major drought my guess is that the critters were hiding somewhere else. You would not be disappointed if you are looking for a challenging trail race. Brazen races are known for their obstacle course difficulties and scenery.
This race is in the wooded hills in Saratoga off HWY 9.
It is easy to find especially if you have ever been to the Mountain Winery which is literally down the road. Parking is limited try to carpool.
We car pooled so we got VIP parking right next to the registration tables and Porto potties.
The half marathoners go out first and take a less incline overall compared to the 10k.
The shorter 10k race starts on a reasonable width trail but within 2 minutes the trail starts its long steep 2.4 mile incline. Overall you go up 1,840 ft in a very short distance
Unless you are a super strong runner , my bet is that most of you will power walk up that narrow hill as I did.
You will see plenty of redwoods along the way but not much in the way of views.
I marched up most of the hill, took a wrong turn then had to go back . It took me exactly 1 hr to climb up and I was glad I had the foresight to take my camelbak with me.
The first water stop is at the top of the mountain 3,000ft up.
I was able to run the 4 miles back down the hill which for 2/3 of it goes off into a different trail. The way back has many switch backs narrow but less steep. There is another water stop halfway down.
The trail is rugged so watch your feet.
Brazen races are a joy , well organized and not too crowded.
The medals are colorful and you have the option to buy a T.shirt or tech shirt for a nominal fee.
As always breakfast is included which is bagels, chips, fruit, cookies and its it ice cream.
I came in 1st in my age group so I got another medal for that.
If you place in the top 3 of your age group (5 year ) you all get a winners medal.
I would do this race again . A little hard for first timers
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Uphill battle
Well organized race. The initial uphill at high grade is a challenge. The steep downhill towards the end is tough as well. I was not as prepared for the inclines … MORE
Well organized race. The initial uphill at high grade is a challenge. The steep downhill towards the end is tough as well. I was not as prepared for the inclines as I should have been. Ran with cramping calves the last 2.5 miles. Still, overall an enjoyable experience and worth it.
Very fun race
Overall a very fun race. One longer climb to start but isn’t terribly steep. Most of the course is in the shade. My garmin had the distance closer to 14 … MORE
Overall a very fun race. One longer climb to start but isn’t terribly steep. Most of the course is in the shade. My garmin had the distance closer to 14 mi.
Beautiful Trails
A beautiful trail race with high elevation. Very tough. Also a very well organized course. Aid stations and support was awesome. Overall, the event was a great first time experience … MORE
A beautiful trail race with high elevation. Very tough. Also a very well organized course. Aid stations and support was awesome. Overall, the event was a great first time experience for me.
Beautiful, but a Tough course
Third time running this 5k. This race takes place at beautiful Sanborn Park in Saratoga. This course include a mix of fire roads, single track, and many switchbacks. There are … MORE
Third time running this 5k. This race takes place at beautiful Sanborn Park in Saratoga. This course include a mix of fire roads, single track, and many switchbacks. There are also a lot of exposed roots and rocks. You definitely have to pay attention during this race. This race is one big uphill of 775′ to the turnaround at the one and only aid station for the 5k. It’s then downhill to the finish. The run is mostly under tree canopy with some exposed areas, but definitely scenic and enjoyable, if you like hills.
The aid station had friendly volunteers and was well stocked with water, sports drink, gels, pretzels, candy, and fruit. The course was well marked.
Brazen Racing’s shirts and medals are always first rate and these did not disappoint.The medal and shirt were great.
Finish line food consisted of the usual pretzels, candy, bagels, pastries, fruit, chips, and It’s It ice cream sandwiches.
All runners received a cotton or tech shirt depending on which race they ran.
Maybe, I’ll give the 10k a try next year. We’ll see.
First 3 miles are no joke
Great race but those first 3 miles are no joke. They kicked my butt and made me cry, lol. Once you get to the top it feels like your running … MORE
Great race but those first 3 miles are no joke. They kicked my butt and made me cry, lol. Once you get to the top it feels like your running on the forest moon of Endor. The only disappointment Brazen cant control is the mountain bikers. Some of the bikers are inconsiderate and try to ride on the single track when its packed with runners and get upset cause they cant fo their normal ride on this one day.
Be Careful Where You Step!
To be honest, I've personally always hated this course but, Brazen Racing always does an amazing job hosting this race in beautiful "Slugatoga". Very well marked, beautiful views . . … MORE
To be honest, I’ve personally always hated this course but, Brazen Racing always does an amazing job hosting this race in beautiful “Slugatoga”. Very well marked, beautiful views . . . But just watch out for those darn rocks/hidden ditches. Rolled over my ankle by the house that is about .5 miles away from the finish line . . . BUT! I still finished. 🙂
Awesome Tough Run
This was my first time running with Brazen and everything about the race was awesome. Bib & swag pick-up was very efficient, there were plenty of restrooms for everyone, and … MORE
This was my first time running with Brazen and everything about the race was awesome. Bib & swag pick-up was very efficient, there were plenty of restrooms for everyone, and there was a large variety of snacks and ice cream after the race.
The race itself was pretty tough as it involved a brutal stretch of uphill running for about a mile (though felt like an eternity) and the narrow trail made it so that there are single file lines of people walking for good chunks of the race. Once you make it up, there’s a aid station with water/gatorade/snacks to help you refuel before you start the run down, treading carefully as you pass by the people still making their way up.
Overall, this is a great race for anyone looking to challenge themselves with a tough hill run and I’m looking forward to trying the 10K or Half version next year.
Beautiful course
This is a beautiful course through a redwood forest. Course markings were very clear. Aid stations were great. Pre-race instructions were helpful. Brazen always does a fantastic job. Low key … MORE
This is a beautiful course through a redwood forest. Course markings were very clear. Aid stations were great. Pre-race instructions were helpful. Brazen always does a fantastic job. Low key and a great atmosphere.
Slugatoga
As a repeat runner, I'll admit that I used to HATE this course. (Only because I hit a rock going downhill and almost fell of the cliff if I didn't … MORE
As a repeat runner, I’ll admit that I used to HATE this course. (Only because I hit a rock going downhill and almost fell of the cliff if I didn’t catch my balance.) Now, this is one of my favorite courses because it does help you prepare for some of the harder trail races (in my opinion) like tge Wildcat and Rocky Ridge courses. The scencery is absolutely breath taking here! Just watch out for bee hives because they are in the area, but the bees won’t bother you if you don’t bother them. 😉
Great race/ Cute slug logo/ Tough course
What's not to like about Brazen Races. They have a 1/2M, 10k, and 5k ... something for everyone. If you want to hike the 1/2M, you can start an hour … MORE
What’s not to like about Brazen Races. They have a 1/2M, 10k, and 5k … something for everyone. If you want to hike the 1/2M, you can start an hour early. Of course, then you can’t win or place in any age group but, maybe you’re there just to have fun and stay fit. If you are competitive, they do have some very talented runners attend their events.
One big hill!
Second time running this 5k. This race takes place at beautiful Sanborn Park in Saratoga. This course include a mix of fire roads, single track, and many switchbacks. There are … MORE
Second time running this 5k. This race takes place at beautiful Sanborn Park in Saratoga. This course include a mix of fire roads, single track, and many switchbacks. There are also a lot of exposed roots and rocks. You definitely have to pay attention during this race. This race is one big uphill of 775′ to the turnaround at the one and only aid station for the 5k. It’s then downhill to the finish. The run is mostly under tree canopy with some exposed areas, but definitely scenic and enjoyable, if you like hills.
The aid station had friendly volunteers and was well stocked with water, sports drink, gels, pretzels, candy, and fruit. The course was well marked.
Brazen Racing’s shirts and medals are always first rate and these did not disappoint. The medals was large and the Slugzilla on the medal has a rubbery texture to it. It was nicely done.
Finish line food consisted of the usual pretzels, candy, bagels, pastries, fruit, chips, Pirate’s Booty, and It’s It ice cream sandwiches.
All runners received a cotton or tech shirt depending on which race they ran.
I also scored a second place age group medal.
Will certainly run this race again. Heck, I just might try the 10k next year.
Took a hike on my run
The usual easy bib pickup you experience with Brazen races. Whether its early bib pickup or quickly getting your bib on race day. Sanborn Park is beautiful and for this … MORE
The usual easy bib pickup you experience with Brazen races. Whether its early bib pickup or quickly getting your bib on race day. Sanborn Park is beautiful and for this race it was pretty cool whether as well. If you have never been to the park even if you’re not going to do any of the runs I would recommend checking it out. It one of those hidden places that if you never had a reason to go there you would not know about it.
This is my 3rd race at Sanborn, it’s tough no matter which race you run. I did the 10k today and honestly this is one of the most challenging of the Brazen races for me. Some of the others feel worse because of hot temperatures but this one wins hands down (besides the Double Dipsea) for climb and technically challenging train run.
You start out with a nice run into the redwoods it seems idyllic you meander to that first upward switch back I was thinking maybe it will be easier this time, ya know you have been training, running hills I feel good! Well at least for me by the ½ mile I was walking the uphill’s and running where I could. This continued for the first three miles. There is an aid station at around 1.4 I stopped got some water and continued alternating between a “fast” walk and slow jog. The trail is pretty there are redwoods and you’re in the forest for sure. You have to watch your footing plenty of rocks, tree limbs, roots and a few steps should ensure you focus on where you put your feet. I did see a couple of people being lead gingerly back to the start after twisting ankles.
At the turn around pretty much spot on at 3.1 you begin your trek back down, again you have to watch your footing, you should try and let people know your coming as well. A lot of telling people “on your right” and “thank you” felt appropriate along with letting some of the faster down-hillers pass me by. The first mile and ½ down at least its only fellow 10K’ers you run into but after you hit the aid station your now running with some of the slower 5K runners/walkers (hikers really!). So, attention to the trail was most important for me.
I finished in the top 3 in my age group so I am really pleased with my time, the refreshments were the usual high standard and the medals were awesome and slugworth! All said if your wanting a challenging and technical trail run that well done or you just want to have a great hike and a beautiful location I would highly recommend this race. Just be careful, let people know you’re coming and be respectful of your fellow hiker/walker/runners!
My first half marathon, what a run!
This was a pretty challenging run for me to choose for my first ever happened marathon. So. Much. Uphill. The track itself is gorgeous but you don't get much of … MORE
This was a pretty challenging run for me to choose for my first ever happened marathon. So. Much. Uphill.
The track itself is gorgeous but you don’t get much of a view, which is what I was hoping for!
The event ran smoothly and was well organised with lots of friendly people. Not too big crowd-wise, so it was comfortable on the trails.
I’d definitely do this run again, I want to improve my time!
Great, but tough race.
First time running the Trailquake and I chose the 5k. This race is tough. It goes uphill for the first half and downhill for the last half. Total elevation gain … MORE
First time running the Trailquake and I chose the 5k. This race is tough. It goes uphill for the first half and downhill for the last half. Total elevation gain is 775ft. The downhill is very technical with a lot of switchbacks. I wiped out on the way down. Not sure what i tripped over, but I was on the ground before I knew it. Got scraped up fairly well. I had about a mile to the finish and Brazen does have a medic at the finish to clean and bandage your wounds. The course is mostly single track through the forests in Saratoga. It’s very pretty, The mascot for this race is the slug. I did feel like I was slugging along at times. I did win 3rd in my age group for the 5k. Sweet! Speaking of sweet, the finisher’s medal was adorable, nice shirt, the aid station were plentifully stocked, and the food at the finish line had the usually salty and sweet treats. You get an It’s-It at the finish, too. My husband ran the 10k which has about 1900ft of elevation. He said it was the hardest 10k he had even done. Next year, I’m running the half, I think.
The quake at the Sanborn park
This is one of my favorite races. It's a doozy of a climb, but it's so cool! It starts and ends at Sanborn Park in Saratoga. The starting area is … MORE
This is one of my favorite races. It’s a doozy of a climb, but it’s so cool! It starts and ends at Sanborn Park in Saratoga. The starting area is small which I really like. It’s a bit more intimate than others. This year I decided to do the 10k instead of the half marathon. It’s a pretty tough 10k, coming in with just below 2,000 feet of elevation gain (1,846′). It starts off on a nature trail before joining the Peterson Memorial Trail for a short bit. This then joins the Sanborn Trail and continues the climb up to Skyline trail. 10K runners turn around at this point (aid station #1), heading back down the Sanborn Trail, meeting with the San Andreas Trail. This year there was also a small loop added (the extra loop is fun, about .5 miles, and about 200 feet of gain in the first .2 miles of this). The first half of this race is all uphill basically, so it’s a ton of fun to run down the second half. 🙂 Be careful though. There is some technical trails, and there are roots and rocks. Also, there is a great deal of shade on this course (which is awesome!) but the bits of sun rays that come through the trees can cause issues with seeing some parts of the trail at times. Just take it easy. No need to wear sunglasses on this course (for me).
The weather this year was warm, and felt a bit humid. Also, there were some mosquitos at the start, but of course Brazen took care of this by having Yoly walk around offering to spray folks with mosquito repellent.
As always, Brazen is the best of the best. Great medal, shirt, course, everything. Thanks again Brazen.
-Streaker #111
One of my favorite difficult courses
I participated this year in the half marathon even though I had torn my glute muscles the previous week, with the plan to go slowly and just finish. I really … MORE
I participated this year in the half marathon even though I had torn my glute muscles the previous week, with the plan to go slowly and just finish. I really enjoy the challenge of the initial climb, and the whole course is beautiful forest. I warn people to be careful because the the dappled light makes it hard to read the rocks, roots and twigs on the trail. Once you get to the top of the starting climb, there are some very runnable sections with some gentle down-hills on soft dirt where you can really fly. The last part is very steep, where the most caution is warranted, but can be quite fast as well. This year had the most mosquitoes of any place I have been. Repellent was provided at the start, but I will put more on next year! The weather was not as hot as predicted, so this was one of the most enjoyable treks I have had this year.
The slug = your pace & the mascot
This was a pretty standard Brazen race, in terms of production, swag, scenery, etc. It was also par for the course with regard to course difficulty. Slow and steady is … MORE
This was a pretty standard Brazen race, in terms of production, swag, scenery, etc. It was also par for the course with regard to course difficulty. Slow and steady is pretty much the only way to get through the climbs, since you need to save your legs for the flat/downhill.
I would venture to say it was maybe smaller than their usual events with regard to attendance, though that may just be because the 5Ks are less popular, and I just didn’t know.
While the race was fun as ever, it was not for the faint of heart- I love that they warned people at the starting line that they may regret signing up for a trail run. Though said in jest, it was probably too true for some people. The race started with a pretty mean climb, which I’m guessing was a surprise for quite a few participants. However, Brazen being the thoughtful producers that they are, did put an aid station at the top, which was a total life/sanity saver. The volunteers were super encouraging, and it made the sprint back down the hill that much more doable.
On a final note, it was a great race for people who want to explore a little more of the bay area. Saratoga isn’t a place that tops my list of towns to see on a weekend, but it was fun to visit since I was racing in the town anyway!
More Difficult than the Mt. Diablo Half!
This race was extremely tough. The first 2.5 miles or so are uphill and then the next 8 are up and down. Thankfully the last few are downhill! It's a … MORE
This race was extremely tough. The first 2.5 miles or so are uphill and then the next 8 are up and down. Thankfully the last few are downhill! It’s a very covered course with all of the trees and so scenic which makes it worth it. The only portion of the course that’s really exposed is in the last mile. Very difficult though. Not a good race to do when you have plans that day!
Like every other Brazen race, there’s a great shirt and of course an amazing medal. The aid stations have the best volunteers and there course is marked very well.
Limited parking so get there early!
tough course
very very tough course. so many steep hills and very narrow course. difficult to pass each other on the road and sometimes it can be dangerous. maybe it's not for … MORE
very very tough course. so many steep hills and very narrow course. difficult to pass each other on the road and sometimes it can be dangerous. maybe it’s not for beginners.
Has one hill but it's almost 2.5 miles
this race boasts a difficult and scenic course with banana slugs. As we are in a major drought my guess is that the critters were hiding somewhere else. You would … MORE
this race boasts a difficult and scenic course with banana slugs. As we are in a major drought my guess is that the critters were hiding somewhere else. You would not be disappointed if you are looking for a challenging trail race. Brazen races are known for their obstacle course difficulties and scenery.
This race is in the wooded hills in Saratoga off HWY 9.
It is easy to find especially if you have ever been to the Mountain Winery which is literally down the road. Parking is limited try to carpool.
We car pooled so we got VIP parking right next to the registration tables and Porto potties.
The half marathoners go out first and take a less incline overall compared to the 10k.
The shorter 10k race starts on a reasonable width trail but within 2 minutes the trail starts its long steep 2.4 mile incline. Overall you go up 1,840 ft in a very short distance
Unless you are a super strong runner , my bet is that most of you will power walk up that narrow hill as I did.
You will see plenty of redwoods along the way but not much in the way of views.
I marched up most of the hill, took a wrong turn then had to go back . It took me exactly 1 hr to climb up and I was glad I had the foresight to take my camelbak with me.
The first water stop is at the top of the mountain 3,000ft up.
I was able to run the 4 miles back down the hill which for 2/3 of it goes off into a different trail. The way back has many switch backs narrow but less steep. There is another water stop halfway down.
The trail is rugged so watch your feet.
Brazen races are a joy , well organized and not too crowded.
The medals are colorful and you have the option to buy a T.shirt or tech shirt for a nominal fee.
As always breakfast is included which is bagels, chips, fruit, cookies and its it ice cream.
I came in 1st in my age group so I got another medal for that.
If you place in the top 3 of your age group (5 year ) you all get a winners medal.
I would do this race again . A little hard for first timers