Course started at a school and went downhill into Cambria where it was flat. As we left Cambria's one main street, we went to the residential area which was quite hilly. Then it went back downhill onto Pacific Coast Highway where it was rolling hills from there. Nice scenary which is a big plus. As a novice, I found the hills challenging but still enjoyable. Good support with friendly volunteers. Not many fans as you would expect from the remote location.

First half marathon I have ever run and really enjoyed myself. The course was challenging but fun, especially for a back of the packer like me.Thanks to my husband for his great support and to the people manning the aid stations.You were right there when I needed you.

Just got done running Hearst Castle's 1st Marathon and I was pleasantly surprised. You can never be sure what you will get in the 1st year or with a small marathon. Course was challenging - an uphill grade most of the way. The kind that fatigues your legs from the constant grade. Mile 2-9 gradual grade up and can take it out of you early. Not many flat or downhill segements. Two significant hills that most had to walk. Moderate description may have been too liberal. Not a PR race, but definitely one to make a decent showing on a tough course. Great volunteer support at aid stations, but no spectators. All the ammenities on the course - Sports drink, Gels, food. Slower runners can get an early start and is recommended if you run between 5.5-6hrs on the average. Pretty strict on the 6hrs timing cutoff. View of the CA Coastline is great through 75% of the course. Great post race support. Lots of food left even for slower runners. If they can keep this up, they can grow this into a great little race!

My fiance and his son ran the half marathon (I didn't, just ran the first couple of miles for fun). They both thought the course was beautiful and the support was good, particularly for a first time event. Spectators were very nice but there weren't too many, the surrounding towns are small.

There need to be more frequent water stops.