"This is about limits. Reaching them, exploring them, exceeding what you thought yours were. Then coming to the conclusion that there aren't any limits."
Earlier this spring I ran the US Half Marathon in San Francisco, CA. When I told My Girl that I ran over the Golden Gate Bridge, she was so jealous she insisted we sign up for the fall version of the race.
US Half Marathon is now owned by Competitor Group, and although it doesn’t change it’s name to Rock n Roll San Francisco until next year, the mere presence of Competitor Group is not a good influence on this race.
But had anything changed from the April 2012 race?
San Francisco’s US Half Marathon (The “Other” Half as they call it, as there is also a US Half in November) has a few major pluses and many minor minuses, but overall the race can’t be beat for beautiful views of the Golden Gate Bridge and downtown San Francisco. In fact, in many ways, this race is far superior to the well-known San Francisco Marathon and 1/2 Marathon.
First plus: Location. You can’t beat running over the Golden Gate Bridge and through Crissy Park for wonderful and exciting views. The view alone keeps your feet moving.
The Golden Gate Half Marathon, by Coastal Trail Runs, was held on February 11, 2012, after a night of rain and wind on the Marin Headlands. Fortunately, the rain stopped by the beginning of the race. To my surprise, the trails weren’t that muddy, but for My Girl – running her first ever 1/2 marathon – it was the worst conditions she ever attempted to do anything outdoors. And, for a first half marathon, most people pick something flat. Not for her.
On May 15, 2011, while those folks from San Francisco ran the 100th Bay to Breakers 12k, those with real legs ran the Toronto Goodlife Marathon and 1/2 Marathon. Despite the drizzle, many runners enjoyed the downhill course and fun atmosphere of this Canadian Race: The Canucks are known for being friendly, and this race was no exception. Continue reading