The Santa Rosa Marathon

This was my 177th marathon including ultras. I was taking a trip the West Coast and I try to run a marathon (or ultra) when I travel, so I signed up for this marathon because it was the only one that fit my schedule and location. What an experience! Flat course, crips, cool weather, great post-race party. The beer was quality, DJ's choice of music was sympatico. And DeLoach Vinyards gave a free bottle of wine to participants. I drank the Pinot Noir with friends and it was absolutely fabulous. The medal was also quality and I had lunch in the beautiful downtown area (Russian River Brewing Company although there are also many other great restaurants to satisfy any palate)...

The water/aid stations were plentiful (especially the wine stop); pacer was good. Lots of enthusiastic and supportive spectators throughout the first half (after which I stopped); a few narrow sections, of course, had few.

They gave us notice and an advisory about the wildfire smoke, which was north of Santa Rosa. The scenery was beautiful. I loved the atmosphere of runners and spectators and running by the vineyards and through the barrel room.