Golden Gate Half Marathon & 5K
Golden Gate Half Marathon & 5K
( 8 reviews )-
San Francisco,
California,
United States - November
- 3 miles/5K, 13.1 miles/Half Marathon
- Road Race
- Event Website
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Melissa Watkins
Sunnyvale, California, United StatesOverall
T-Shirts/SWAG
Aid Stations
Course Scenery
Expo Quality
Elevation Difficulty
Parking/Access
Race Management
The last time I participated in this event was 2014 (I believe it was under a different race organization at the time). To be honest, I don't think this race is worth the $100+ registration. I initially wasn't planning to do this race until my boyfriend decided to sign up. If you're looking to run the Golden Gate Bridge, I recommend the San Francisco Marathon (or half marathon) or Rock 'n Roll San Francisco Half Marathon. Similar price ranges, but with much better expos and overall experience.
As other reviewers mentioned, the SoFi Golden Gate Half Marathon expo was dismal. Parking is always a challenge around the Fisherman's Wharf area. Located outside near Ghirardelli Square, there were a few sponsor and local race tents. The shirts were long-sleeve and ran extremely small.
Despite the poor expo, race day was pretty fun! The weather was gorgeous; no fog or wind at the bridge. The course did have some hills, though...one hill right as your crossed the start line and one hill in the last .5 miles or so to the finish. Not exactly fun having hills to start and end your race! Running the Golden Gate Bridge, though, is always worth it. The views that day were spectacular. Many people stopped to take pictures (as did I). I gave this race 4 stars just for the bridge itself.
The post-race expo was decent. They hosted a beer garden in Ghirardelli Plaza. My boyfriend was a bit disappointed because the race organizers originally promised a wine festival, but was cancelled for whatever reason.
Overall, I enjoyed this race, but do not think it's worth the expensive registration fee. Again, if running the bridge is on your bucket list, I recommend the SF Marathon or RnR SF Half Marathon.