I flew into Sacramento International Airport on Thursday and the airport was much smaller than I thought
The expo was pretty large because it was in a convention center
There were several tables to go and pick up your bib (approximately 8). The volunteers and tables were very organized to direct the runners
There were several other tables advertising future races, which seemed cool! All the races were in California, and I was jealous that I couldn't do all of them!
There was one section where there were companies giving massages, but they cost $20. I didn't want to pay for a massage, so I declined.
The weather was cool in the beginning of the race (50s), but slowly warmed up as time went on (low 60s).
We had to take a shuttle bus to get to the start line
I took the shuttle bus at 4:30 from the convention center, and I would estimate that there were ten buses in that area. Other shuttle buses left at 5:00 and 5:30 from partner hotels.
This is advertised as a downhill course, but it should be advertised as rolling hills! The first half felt like it was rolling and hilly. Around mile 10 it was significantly uphill.
There weren't as many spectators as I hoped since it's the capital of California, but there were enough to keep the party alive towards the end!
Highlights
There were about 6 alcohol stops! I had beer, whiskey, prosecco, Fireball, Jameson, a jello shot!
There were food stops too! I had beignets, doughnuts, oranges, M & Ms, bananas, cookies, chocolate
No challenge options, so all the runs were on the same day, and no one could do anything crazy
Finishers received beer, oatmeal, a backpack, a jacket, and a burrito
This was my 11th marathon and 11th state!
I recommend this marathon if you want to run a marathon that is filled with tons of people! You most likely won't BQ, but it is a good course if you want to have fun!
Race Website: CIM