Real runner feedback on course feel, crowd support, aid stations, and logistics (parking, hotels, restaurants).
This is the best race in SoCal with gorgeous view of the ocean and a scenic road route around town. The support along the course, the gorgeous swag, the expo, and how well organized the race is make it for a wonderful event that I choose to run every year. I’ve ran either the full Or the half every year since 2021 and plan on continuing to run it into my old age. Absolutely love this race and the work they do for the running community and for the kids!
If you’re like me, and you like the extra swag, then you can sign up for the 5k on Saturday at 5pm and for either the half of the full on Sunday. You will receive the Combo Crush medal for complete both races. It’s super cool and you can just walk the 5k if you want to save your legs for the next day, or treat it as a shakeout run.
Parking at the OC Fairgrounds where the finish line is and taking the shuttle to the start line at Fashion Island is super easy and fast. You run from point to point and you’re greeted with a great party at the finish line.
I first ran the OC half marathon in 2012 and twice again these last 2 years. This year, I also ran the 5k with my 3 year old in a jogging stroller. The half marathon course is full of beautiful neighborhoods and scenic views along the beach. The after party with live band is always a blast! You cannot beat the perfect SoCal weather and SoCal vibes. This is definitely one of my favorite races that I look forward to each year!
Love the start, the great downhill second mile with all the views and the beautiful scenery that changes every few miles. Nice finish and the best post-race party I have ever been to.
Half gets a bit tight with slower marathoners but it all works out well
Love the course. The crowd support.
Nothin better than running in your home town.
Well organized no delays In starting the race. Plenty of room to run. I used the pacer for 3 hrs and fell slightly behind and finished at 3:03 for a BQ.
It rained heavily during the race but was not cold rain. Be prepared for weather shift before race. Can be fast course nothing significant in terms of hills.
Parking was great and easy to exit after race.
The course has a great downhill first half, goes through a number of cities in Orange County and the views and terrain changes about every three miles. The weather is almost always perfect running weather and the party at the end is the best.
Great PR course. First half has the beauty, the second half is just flat and fast.