Latest reviews by Melissa Watkins
Overall
T-Shirts/SWAG
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Elevation Difficulty
Parking/Access
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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.
Overall
T-Shirts/SWAG
Aid Stations
Course Scenery
Expo Quality
Elevation Difficulty
Parking/Access
Race Management
The San Jose Rock n Roll Half Marathon will always have a special place in my heart. This race was my first half marathon back in 2009. 9 years later, the Rock n Roll organization has grown tremendously and for obvious reasons. Every year they deliver a well organized, awesome race experience!
The registration fee can be expensive, but it's completely worth it. The expo is impressive; hosted inside the San Jose Convention Center, there's a ton of local races, sponsor, and gear booths.
The race itself is always fun and the course is FLAT. My only gripe is the amount of time it took to actually cross the start line. With 15 or so corrals and 3-5 minute spacing between each one, it took around 40 minutes to actually start the race. But, with the bands along the course and awesome volunteer/aid stations, I had a great time. The weather was great and I always enjoy running through the neighborhoods of Downtown San Jose and Rose Garden area.
The post-race festival was SO MUCH FUN. Not only do you get a free beer, but the headliner band was awesome (I can't remember their name). The band was like a steam punk marching band with circus performers...no joke, they had a guy on stilts walking around the crowd. The music was different but really energetic and fun to watch. I typically never hang out very long at post-race festivals, but this one kept my attention!
Overall, I definitely recommend this race. Another great event by the Rock n Roll series!
Overall
T-Shirts/SWAG
Aid Stations
Course Scenery
Expo Quality
Elevation Difficulty
Parking/Access
Race Management
For a popular race that draws in a large crowd, it was an easy, fun experience. I think the most inconvenient part of any race in San Francisco is the parking, especially when the start/finish is on or near the Embarcadero. I live in the Bay Area, but opted to get a hotel room near Union Square (made a fun staycation out of it) and then took Lyft to the Expo and to/from the event. I got to the Expo on the last day with 15 minutes to spare, so it was pretty empty.
On race day, the weather was absolutely perfect. No fog, no wind, no clouds. The course does have several hills leading up to the bridge, but they are not overwhelmingly difficult, and you won't even think about it once you get to cross the bridge. I actually think this was one of my favorite courses ever in San Francisco. From the Embarcadero, you virtually stay on or around the bridge the entire time, and with the great weather, the views were amazing. Several miles also had some great themes...an Elvis mile, a military tribute/memorial mile, quite a few rockbands...I was impressed.
I would definitely recommend running this event!