Epic rain of 20 inches, trails fill of mud up to mid-calf, staggering 2 mile uphills, 4800 feet of climbing = a race day I'll remember always. Never have I had so much fun running, or I shall say hiking, a marathon.

DO THIS RACE! It's a test of your metal for the right to wear a finisher medal. I'll smile everytime I see it hanging on my wall. Tough...you bet!!!

Take your training seriously. I ran 25 miles of steep hills every week and I still found myself race walking. Yet I still managed to finish in 6 or so hours. The ocean, cliff and redwood views kept me busy all race.

I'd love to go back on a clear day but I'd wouldn't have the muddy memories! The course support was first class: boiled potato with salt, pretzels, hot soup, M&Ms, water. No frills start. <200 runners. Perfect.

This is a really cool, and unique race in the Marin Headlands along the coast. Be prepared for lots of elevation gain (4000ft plus for the marathon distance), but sweeping sunny views of the Pacific Ocean. The run is on trails, and conditions could vary significantly depending on the weather. Running was competitive, yet peaceful. I could hear the breeze in the trees and the waves of the ocean, a welcome change from distracting/loud major marathons. Best race I've done! Only thing I'd warn about is trail markings were poor in places, and water stations are far appart (3-4 miles). If they had more volunteers at key intersections to help direct runners (and better marked flagging) this would be the perfect race! Also be prepared to share the path with other runners in some spots, as varying distance races all occur roughly at the same time (marathon, half, 50K, 50 Mile). There are very few mile markers, so have your pace down:-) Prize purse money is for the 50 mile runners only.

Course was in the Marin Headlands. The course was extremely muddy, especially coming into and out of Muir Beach due to being traversed by the 50-milers and 50Kers. I ended up taking an unintentional mud bath. The aid stations were well stocked. Nice shirt. Everyone got the same medal, but with a different neck ribbon denoting the distance. The finish line food was great.