Are you looking for a fun run in Southern California? Want to burn off those Orange County Fair fried food wonders calories? Want to experience the park in a new way and get an awesome medal just for having a fun?! Are you a runner that is just looking for a great race that is flat and try to get a PR in? The OC Fair Fun Run 5k is the race for all types of runners and walkers! Sponsored by the OC Marathon the OC fair has its own 5k every August. This race offers a fun run through the fair where you can play some games and go on slides during the race. This race also offers a cotton race shirt and an awesome Finishers Medal! This race is fun for walkers, joggers and especially the kids. Packet Pickup is the morning of the race. Parking is easy to get on the fairgrounds and police are their to help traffic move about nicely and steadily. This is a plus for any race. It is easy to pickup your bib for all bibs can be found in alphabetical order and an email is sent to participants of what number they are. Helpful volunteers are there to assist you and handout your bibs and race shirt. The race expo is also their with products and information of in the area and upcoming races. At the start line, it is a bit of a crowd to get in the corrals. So make sure you get in at least 10 minutes before race time. There is good start line music and start line announcers keeping the crowd excited and ready for the race to start. Also announcing Marathons and talking about the OC Marathon. Be ready to start right after the "Star Spangled Banner" Athletes!
Mile 1- The race starts out with a straight onto the major street around the fairgrounds. Use this way to gain your speed and keep a constant stride. It is a nice cool morning and you have room to run at your own leisure. Just enjoy the great workout and the environment of the race.
Mile 2- At this next mile you are starting to make your way into the fair, you run through the farm area, past the Hangar stage and you get to see the whole fair as empty as it is with no crowds. Continue enjoying the sights.
Mile 3.1- You are still running through the fair, at this part be sure to enjoy the free games and slides in the fair. Expect to wait in lines however. It will be okay if you are not running for time. If you are running for time, this is a great course to run for a PR, this course is very flat with few turns. As soon as you exit the fair, make a full dash for the finish line! At the finish line you are welcomed back with an awesome medal!
Overall this is a great race for the whole family. If your in the area, you should look into this race. Also to add for your own medal collection. Be sure to check out the OC Marathon and the other Beach Cities Challenge Races as well. Until the Next Race Review always remember to Fear No Distance Athletes!