Race Review: San Diego Rock n' Roll 1/2 Marathon

Rock 'n' Roll San Diego 1/2 Marathon
San Diego, CA
June 2, 2013
Race Site Link
Overall Racing Experience: 4/5



Okay, so this was a huge race. There were over 18,000 finishers! If you like to be part of a huge running event with expos, elite athletes and all the hoopla that goes with a marquee race series, then this is definitely for you. I had a great time being part of such a big race production. Running 13.1 miles seemed a small part in what was essentially a 2 or 3 day running vacation. If you haven't run in a big race before, the Rock 'n' Roll series is a good entry point.

Parking/Facilities/Registration: Parking? Not a concern. Most runners walked from nearby hotels. Facilities? There were more porta potties than I have ever seen in one location before. And yet, there were still long lines an hour before start time. Registration was held at the San Diego convention center as part of a big runners expo with guest speakers, vendors, and Rock 'n' Roll series swag for purchase. The organization and management of all aspects was very good. Facilities Score 1/1

Race Course: The course was an interesting run through San Diego. I was a little disappointed not to have seen the water during the run. I thought maybe we'd climb some scenic vista overlooking the water. However, we ran through some interesting neighborhoods, passed some historical landmarks, and ran alongside Balboa Park. The course was well marked, traffic was never an issue, and there were plenty of aid stations along the way. The last 2 miles was pretty much all downhill and allowed for this runner to set a new PR. Of course this was the Rock 'n' Roll series so there were plenty of local bands rocking out on stages along the way. Score 1/1

Refreshments: After the race runners could choose from water, sports drinks, yogurt, bananas, bagels, and oranges. Those who were over 21 were entitled to a free beer at the post race concert in Petco Park. Score 1/1

Awards and Results: The awards ceremony was held a Petco Park prior to the concert. Many runners were still out on the course at the time and could be seen finishing on the huge display in the park via a live cam feed from the finish line. The awards ceremony was only for the elites. They were all world class athletes and I am happy just to mention that I ran in the same race with them. Unfortunately, I think many people felt left out and I would have liked to see the top runners in the age groups, etc.  Score 0/1

Overall Experience: I really enjoyed the race. The atmosphere was festive, the course was fast, and it was really an experience to be part of something so epic in scale. Score 1/1

Race Results

Race Score: 4/5