What is the terrain actually like?

Don't let the "flat" description fool you into thinking this is a pure road race. If you are doing the Half Marathon, expect a 50/50 split between pavement and packed dirt trails. The 10K is mostly paved with a small dirt section, while the 5K is almost entirely road. It’s a great course for those who want to break up the monotony of asphalt, but bring shoes with decent traction if you don't want to slip on the dirt segments. You can find the GPX files for the Brazen Racing ↗ routes here.

Should I expect it to be a scorcher?

August in San Leandro can be tricky. While the inland valleys might be baking, the proximity to the Hayward Regional Shoreline means you'll likely catch a decent breeze. Expect temperatures in the mid-70s (F) at gun time, but the humidity near the water can make it feel heavier. Light, breathable gear is your friend here.

How much am I going to pay?

The pricing is standard for a well-run Brazen event, though it isn't "budget" territory. The 5K is $80.18, the 10K is $89.79, and the Half Marathon is $109.00. If you are a remote runner, you can snag a slightly cheaper rate, but the real savings are gone once the early bird window closes. It’s fair value considering the quality of the organization and the post-race perks.

What are my distance and start time options?

The schedule is staggered to keep the course from getting too crowded. The Half Marathon starts at 8:00 AM, followed by the 10K at 8:15 AM, and the 5K at 8:30 AM. There is also a dedicated Half Marathon Hiker Division starting at 7:00 AM. If you're looking for the "true" experience, the Half Marathon offers the best mix of scenery and terrain variety.

What happens at the aid stations and finish line?

Brazen doesn't skimp on the essentials. You'll find water, sports drinks, gels, pretzels, and candy at the stations. For the Half Marathon, stations are spaced out at miles 1.5, 3, 6.55, 10.1, and 11.6. Most importantly, the finish line features the local favorite: 'It's It' ice cream sandwiches. It’s a small detail that makes a massive difference when you're cooling down.

Are there any strict cutoffs I should worry about?

If you are tackling the Half Marathon, you need to keep moving. There is a cutoff at the fourth aid station (mile 10.1); you must reach it by 11:30 AM. That’s a roughly 20-minute-per-mile pace, so it's generous for most, but don't linger too long at the early stations.