This race was a laid back event, offering a way to end the year with a run. Participants could choose from a 5k/10k/15k or half marathon. *after searching results, I see 2 people ran a marathon.

Registration: This was available online, or you could pay on race day for only $5 more. Included with registration was a bib and a finisher’s medal. The half marathon was $40 on race day.

Pre-race: Registration and packet pick up (checking in and getting a bib) were happening. Participants could stash bags behind the sign in table. Parking in a nearby beach parking lot. The beach bathrooms were open to use. There were some announcements about the course, it was an out and back and depending on the distance you were running you may have to run 3 loops. No National Anthem, and someone said “go”

Race/Course: Out and back on a paved path along the beach in Santa Monica, passing the pier.

-Flat -no hills
-no mile markers, but course turnaround, finish/start marked with chalk and orange cones
-Hydration – water and lemon-lime Gatorade at the finish/start area. In the same paper cups.
-Gels – while it lasted, available at the finish/start area
-Photographer – lots of photos posted to the facebook page for free
-Bathrooms – the beach bath houses were open on the course
-No volunteers on course
-The scenery doesn’t get any better than running along the beach, looking at the ocean on one side and the mountains on the other
-No spectators – just the people walking the path, or other runners
-no medical tent or aid

Finish/Post Race: There was a small finish flag, and someone shouted your bib number to someone that recorded your time. There were bottles of water, small snacks, candy, and a blue re-usable bag to put things in. There was plenty of things to go around, and encouraged taking multiples.

Overall: Laid back race, but well organized. Flat with great scenery.

Check out my blog for more photos https://marathang.wordpress.com/2016/01/04/a-better-world-running-nye-13-1-review/

Link to this review