The weather was lousy, e.g. lots of wind and rain; the course was challenging; the location was isolated; the volunteers were outstanding; and the experience was great.

This is one of the most beautiful marathons I have even done--and one of the toughest! The serenity and view of expansive green hills are the best reward for this run. Not for those who need crowd support or the affirmation of an expensive medal.

I really enjoyed this marathon, and felt privileged to run on the base of Camp Roberts - which was preparing to send troops & equipment to Iraq. The rolling hills were green and scenic, organization of the run was excellent, and the volunteers at the aid stations & start/finish were very encouraging. I met some neat people out on the course. Celebrate the beginning of spring with this marathon!

This was my first marathon (goal was 4 Hrs -- actual completion 4 Hrs 55 Min) and by the end I understood how strategy plays a huge roll in completing one (1st 6 miles were spent climbing hills, not rolling). Great course. Would recommend as a 2nd or 3rd marathon. The people were very nice, but a few of the aide stations were in direct sunlight (75 to 80 degeree weather). Many of the snacks I was trying to energize myself with were warm. One restroom at the start of the race.

I thoroughly enjoyed this run. As others have said, the scenery gives it a very peaceful feeling. It is really more like a trail run, except on pavement. I ran this race with friends, and it really was a just a fun run through the countryside. Well, fun for about the first 20 miles anyway.

Not enough water stations. Medal was cheapest in 100 marathons that I've run!

I just ran the 1/2 marathon yesterday (I was overall winner) and this course is peacefull. The organization was great, with a great home feel. All the volunteers had smiles and cheers for all. This is a great training run, especially the 1/2 marathon in preperation for the Boston Marathon. Nice rolling hills, with a nice challenging uphill from miles 4 1/2 through 5 3/4 miles. Thank you to all the volunteers who helped make this a great race.

By far, this marathon is the most challenging run I have done. The 'Sixth Mile Hill', as one participant called it, is the hardest. Overall, the run was filled with beautiful scenery. I recommend it to all of you runners that claim to be ready for a challenge. I look forward to next year.

Country side is fantastic. Always enjoy California in the Spring. Challenging hill around mile 5-6 but really nice on the return. Sorry that I missed the first year.

This was my first marathon, and now I can't wait to do more! Thanks to the wonderful organizers and volunteers, and the beautiful course, I've got the bug. The rolling hills added a bit of a challenge, and the oak-studded country side kept it interesting and beautiful. Can't wait until next year!