I only signed up for this race so that I can officially say I completed the Run the Bay Challenge series. I ran the 408k(8k) in March and now the 415k(5k). The last in series is the 510k(10k) in October. Coming from the south bay, I needed to get to the race earlier for bib pick up since the pick up day locations were both in the north bay. No problem, I’m used to that. However, the pick up on race day was not too organized as our bibs didn’t have our names printed already and they were scrambling to locate additional bibs for the runners. Parking was not too bad. They had provided a map of lots garages that offered free parking so it pays to get there earlier. If not, I was able to find parking nearby on the streets. There is only one start time so you need to arrive here on time. I believe there was over 1100 runners that day. I’ve ran many 5ks in the past and I can honestly say that this one was one of the more difficult ones due to the hills. I wasn’t prepared for that and didn’t realize the amount of uphill running I would be doing… even if the hills were gradual, unlime crazy SF hills. The first mile was almost all up hill. Thankfully, the last third of the race was downhill so you could make up your time. Mile two was both up and down. There was only one water stop from what I can remember. Volunteers were spread out directing runners where to go. It was a pretty uneventful run since there wasn’t much to see or listen to in the entertainment department. You do receive your medal once you cross the finish line and results are listed online quickly. As for post race goodies, there were a handful of vendors and food. You are given Hint flavored water since they sponsored the event as well as pop chips, bagels, and bananas. Two down, one more to go. See everyone next at the«Let’s go 510k» this fall.
