Race: San Diego Half Marathon
Runner: Chris B
Race Date: 03/10/2019
Location: San Diego, California
Results
https://results.rmraces.live/San-Diego-Half-Marathon/events/2019/san-diego-half-marathon/results
Strava Activity Link
https://www.strava.com/activities/2204713531/overview
3 Bests – What aspects of the race did you like the most?
1) Very friendly staffers and volunteers.
2) The weather was perfect. 59 degrees.
3) The view.
Not so much – Aspects of the race that didn’t do it for you
The starting waves weren’t well policed (people that were in the wrong waves).
Weird factor – What’s the weirdest thing about this race?
The advertised start time was 7:30am. However, it wasn’t the start of the wave (2) I was in. We started 15 minutes later. That was confusing.
Highlights of your race – What did you do well and enjoy about your race in particular?
I initially wanted to follow the pacer for a sub-2 finish but it felt too slow. Instead, I worked on my own during the whole race. I felt in control for the whole time and was able to manage my pace more effectively.
Lessons for others – Share your pro-tips on the race to help the next runner
Train for hills.
Lessons you learned that will help you next time around
Nutrition is paramount. I used 2 gels during the race and helped maintain my energy level high.
Most important course specific knowledge to know about the race
Looking at my Strava activity, take note of the very steep hill at mile 8/9. Make sure to take a gel about 1 mile before that hill or you may lose your breakfast (I’ve seen it happen!).
Aesthetics – Is it a pretty course?
Very pretty. For the first 5 miles, the runners follow the shore of the San Diego bay.
Difficulty – Is it a tough course?
The course is fast with rolling hills until mile 9.
Organized and well run – Did it feel like a well-oiled machine or were they flying by the seat of their pants?
Very well run race. Volunteers and staffers are always willing to help.
Competition – Is there a strong field?
Elite runner finished in 68 minutes.
Logistics – Does it require a special handshake, registration a year in advance, hotels all booked? Give us the low down on the nuts and bolts of making the race happen.
- Book your hotel reservation early.
- If coming from out of town, it is best to use public transportation due to road closures.
Aid Stations – Standard fare or anything special to know about the aid stations in terms of what’s available or when?
- water
- electrolyte drink
- orange slices
- gels
Weather and typical race conditions
A bit chilly at the start (48 degrees) so I wore gloves and arm sleeves) . 59 degrees at the finish and sunny. Slightly windy.
Gear – Did you need anything special or is there anything you’d recommend for the next guy?
No need to carry water or camelback. Aid station (every 4 miles?) provided plenty of water.
Spectators – Is this a friendly course for your friends?
Very friendly. Spectators with signs were everywhere along the course to support us. Even school bands, and flag teams.
How’s the Swag?
Good. Legacy runners (after 1 year) get a shirt and zip up hoodie.
The Overall Score – How many stars do you give this race and do you recommend that others run it?
I’ll give this race 4 out of 5 stars. Because there’s always room for improvements.