The event is run in waves, so in reality there are 7 different races that take place. The morning kicks off with Masters race, (separate race for men and women), followed by races for those 39 & under, then a "Party People" run/walk, and it all caps off with an elite mens and women's dash to the finish line. Once you run your race, kick back, enjoy the Southern California scenery and watch others race their way to the finish line.

Pros:
I love that the races are run in waves. Even though this is a huge race I never felt crowded in my wave group.
New ownership this year did not disappoint. Everyone from the volunteers, to the announcers to Meb hanging out at the start and finish line brought the most positive energy.
The course is beautiful, running along the ocean and through downtown Carlsbad.
The post race party is a blast, you are even given two drink coupons for a great local beer.
Since I ran an early race I was able to easily find a spot to hang out with my friends all morning and cheer other races. Stay until the elite race, I promise it is so worth it!
Free race photos, that were beautiful picturesque locations.
This year they added a packet pick up party the day before. I didn't attend but it looked like a lot of fun including a meet and greet with Meb Keflezighi.

Cons:
There is not assigned parking, so you have to find a spot on a residential street. This can take a while so plan ahead.
While it is a "fast" course the reality is there are a few rolling hills.
There was a bottle of Gatorade given to racers in the finish line chute, however the bottle was sealed on the inside and was so hard to open.

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