THE COURSE
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1. WHAT IS THE TERRAIN OF THE COURSE?
The US Half Marathon, San Francisco course has the same course as its inception in 2002. The race kicks off on the waterfront in Aquatic Park on historic Muni Pier with sweeping views of Alcatraz and the Golden Gate Bridge. The course travels through the Marina, Crissy Field, the Presidio and across the famous Golden Gate Bridge, exposing breathtaking sights of the San Francisco cityscape. You’ll return along the Golden Gate Promenade, up through Fort Mason and to the grand musical finish in Aquatic Park.
2. SHOULD I BE WORRIED ABOUT THE HILLS ON THIS COURSE?
The first question from out of town runners is “are there any big hills?” The event travels along the waterfront and not through the city center up any ‘cable car hills’, so it is relatively flat with 3 challenging climbs at mile 3.5, 7 & 12.5. Many runners find the hills a welcomed challenge that offers the reward of spectacular views of the bay, national parks and an amazing city skyline. The course is extremely scenic, covering the most popular sections of San Francisco's coastline. There’s a reason we’ve been voted “Best of the Bay” year after year.
3. WHAT PRODUCTS WILL BE SERVED ON COURSE?
Water & Sports Drink will be located at each aid station.
4. WILL GELS OR CHEWS BE AVAILABLE ON THE COURSE?
No, gels have been banned from our course since we travel mostly through protected federal park districts, not to mention the Golden Gate Bridge. If you bring gels or chews, please respect the parks and more importantly the Bay.
NOTE: Anyone observed littering will be disqualified immediately.
NOTE: Anyone observed littering will be disqualified immediately.
5. IS IT A LOOP COURSE/OUT AND BACK?
Since 2002, the US Half Marathon has been an out and back course starting on Van Ness near Muni Pier and finishing on the waterfront in Aquatic Park. The start and finish are about 100 yards apart.
6. IS THE COURSE CERTIFIED BY USA TRACK AND FIELD?
Yes, the course is USA Track & Field certified.
7. WHERE CAN I FIND A COURSE MAP?
Click to download our Interactive Course Map.
8. DO I NEED TO COMPLETE THE COURSE BY A SPECIFIC TIME?
Yes, the Half Marathon course will be open for 3.0 hours. You must finish your race by 10:00 AM to receive an official time and official finisher’s medal.
9. WHAT IF I CANNOT COMPLETE THE COURSE IN 3.0 HOURS?
Participants who are unable to complete the Half Marathon within 3.0 hours will be transported to the finish line by race officials.
10. HOW MUCH OF THE COURSE SURFACE IS ASPHALT (AS OPPOSED TO CONCRETE)?
The course is about 60% asphalt.
11. WHERE CAN MY FRIENDS AND FAMILY CHEER ME ON?
There are various spectator-friendly vistas on the course. Vista Point at the north end of the Golden Gate Bridge (first exit) and Sports Basement Cheering Section outside the store.
