I love to run the 5K on this course because it's flat and has plenty of space for ppl to run AND walk, so passing is never a problem. 2018 was very cold 38' at 7am and 39' by the time my event started at 7:15am. This course starts on the streets inside the Los Alamitos Joint Forces Base then curves onto the tramac onto the actual runway. They displayed Apache helicopters on the running path. The ground is very hard because it IS an airstrip, so the your legs and body will take a pounding if you run hard. The Race On The Base has a Reverse Triathlon that is great for those just starting out in triathlons or wants to experience it without having to train. Plus you get to swim in a heated pool, while running a 5K and cycling for 13.1 miles on the airstrip. Great fun each year with different shirts and metals. 2018 theme color is black with the medallion in the shape of the United States (red, white, & blue). The only drawback to the ROTB is the start time is 7am IN THE WINTER. The organizers NEED to MOVE either the start TIME to 8am OR the DATE to April or May where it is not freezing-ass cold. This may be one reason I may discontinue the ROTB event, ONLY reason really. read more

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Awesome Experience. This event was actually very well organized, everything was set up and ready to rock & roll on time. They had so many vendors and fun things to look at and buy. The team and organization were very friendly and helpful throughout the whole event. As soon as my run was done they had my numbers posted on the wall (no wait). I would definitely be participating in the future run. The have a 5k, 10k and more, check out the website :) even fun for kids. I got there extremely early which I planned so I can park and get a good spot, if you run late you will definitely be parking far and in traffic. read more

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This event offers a 10K, 5K and a triatholon. The course is pretty much running up and down the main runway and taxiways. The benefit of that is there is plenty of space to spread out and there are no bottleneck situations (Turkey Trot). There were some bands that played along the route. The base itself is a bit run down and doesn't appear to get much use these days. As far as 10Ks go, it's not a huge event and appears to have a small following in comparison to other events I've done in the past. This is also the first 10K I've done where they provide a timing chip, which was nice. However the results weren't posted until the next day. The expo was OK. The only item you get is a T-shirt. Johnny Rebs was one of the main sponsers and provided food. They gave you choice of a free breakfast or lunch item after the race. Overall, a good experience. read more

Los Alamitos Race on the Base - Races & Competitions Near Me - Los Alamitos, California

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Racing on the Los Alamitos Joint Force Training Base is great! I ran the 10K, a flat and fast course winding and easing through the base's airfield; and I had a lot of fun. In fact, many, many, many did--over 8,000 spectators and athletes in attendance! Whether you'd prefer walking the 5k, running the 5k, stepping-up to the 10k, or bearing-down upon the Triathlon, yes, this Race on the Base is popular! It's so popular, that after reading Honey V.'s 5-star review, in which she notes how much fun she had competing in the Reverse Tri, I'm finding myself feeling a bit left out for running the simple 10k. I haven't yet registered for a Triathlon--sprint or otherwise--but I'm beginning to feel that Los Alamitos' may be my first, next year, even. Parking takes time, as stated on the website, so leave early. Each car is stopped before being allowed entry, so expect a wait. In arriving early, at least, you'll be able to enjoy the Expo and possibly pick-up your bib if you hadn't already. Tasty food trucks surround the Expo as well, another plus and yet another great opportunity to revel in the fun. read more

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5k race is a family event for us. Even though we had to register far advance, wake up to early on race day, and all we always feeling good afterwards. In the Race on Base, the security check was kinda unusual for race, soldiers were everywhere, but at the we had so much fun, cause there were food trucks! Fun. read more

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The Los Alamitos 10K used to be run through beautiful Rossmore with it's beautiful homes and tree lines streets. I have run 85 10 K's and this WAS my favorite. WAS. Because they moved it to the Base. You run on the landing strips on the airport. It's awful. 6 miles on a treadmill is more interesting. If they ever go back to Rossmore I'll be back. read more

This was my first time running in this race. The website said to arrive about 1.5 hours before your race began, but since I was running the 10K, which was the first race of the day, I figured I didn't have to be there THAT early. That was dumb of me. From the freeway exit to the entrance of the base, the distance was about 1.5 miles, but it took about an HOUR to cover that distance. Get there early! The course itself was ok. Completely flat, which is great, but some of the bands that were playing chose some slow paced songs, which was a bit of a downer. Although there was course support and water stops, I think that the water stops could have been better spaced. I think they had stops at mile 1 and then mile 5. That time in between seemed like forever. The race swag is pretty cool. A long sleeved tech tee, and dog tag medal, and a free meal afterwards. read more

Did my first straight 10K run only (not obstacles or "fun run") and had a blast! Sure, the course was boring at times because it was on a long straight path, but they had local bands playing at different parts of the run that was a nice pick me up. I was amazed at the wheelchair racers, the triathlon competitors and everyone's over all demeanor in being friendly and supportive. I think I'll run this again next year. They also had a decent sized tent for the expo vendors and the food trucks were flawless. It's now become a two day event so you can be involved both days. Main races are ran on the Saturday but there were family friendly events the night before with live music. Can't beat that for free parking included. read more

Los Alamitos Race on the Base - I got to be a runner for this event and was sponsored to do so by SERVPRO of Laguna Beach/Dana Point/Anaheim West/Costa Mesa. - Races & Competitions Near Me - Los Alamitos, California

5k, 10k, reverse tri, junior tri. For as many races as they have going on, they do an amazing job at organization! Packet pick up: Easy! You go the base the night before, park, and walk a little bit but get your bib and shirt and can visit some of the booths. Shirt: I've ran the 10k three times and each year the sizing is different for the shirts. My first one was my favorite but it's too small. The second time I went larger and it's too big. I didn't know what to do this year and it's a bit large. Oh well. Course: The course is nice and flat. I find that with the 10k being first usually the bands are not always set up. You see them, but don't hear them, oh well. Pace: 8:05 for my 10k Parking: Parking is ample, but you have to arrive early. Last year I gave myself an hour because I live close by. It was turning left onto the small street from katella that took forever. Only 3 cars could go at a time. I had to get out of the drivers seat, have my mom park and run to the start. I got there with about 3 minutes to spare. Had to use the restroom but the porta potty line was too long so I just ran. This year I was smarter and left earlier, and went a different way. Get there early! Goodies: I'm a fan of goodies. They give you a free breakfast, this year through Denny's. I got their pancake breakfast which was tasty. They had other booths that you could walk around as well. Reverse tri: If you have time go and cheer on those in the reverse tri, especially at the pool. It's the last leg of the race and so difficult. Weather: The weather is usually pretty nice. The morning is cold, and then it warms up as you run. I usually run with a hat and decided not to that morning. I should have ran with one, it warmed up. read more

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This was my daughter's first Jr. Triathlon (she's 8). I was nervous about the entire endeavor, it was a lot for her to take on with the transitions and not being familiar with the course. Luckily, the Los Alamitos Race on the Base did their best to make us all feel more comfortable. The Junior Reverse Triathlon was set in a separate area near the pool and only 1 parent for each child were allowed in the race area. This made for a much less chaotic environment and a safer area for everyone. The other parent could watch the swim portion at the pool and finish line. The entire race was well run and organized and my daughter is already planning for next year. Here are some points you might want to remember for next year should you find yourself in the Jr Triathlon mix: 1. Get there at 6am (I know, ugh) 2. Have your child wearing: bathing suit, socks, tennis shoes, running pants (it's so cold at 6am), shirt with Bib on it, timing chip strapped to their left ankle and bring a jacket. 3. Bring with you: Helmet (with sticker number on it), Bike (with sticker number on it), a bag that you will carry with a beach towel and flip flops for when they finish and your camera. 4. Remember that it is going to be fun and remind yourself and your child of that at 6am. My daughter was pumped from the second she woke up and didn't come down from the adreneline high until Tuesday the following week. Good job Race on The Base! read more

Great event that take place on the Joint Forces Training Base in Los Alamitos. This was my second time running the 10k. The race takes place on the runway area of the base. It isn't the most scenic course but it is flat and they do provide some entertainment like bands and volunteers to cheer for you. Also because you are on the runway, you have lots of space to run and you don't feel packed in. I liked the black, long-sleeved shirt that we got this year. After the race you got a free breakfast/lunch from Johnny Rebs. The breakfast was just a breakfast sandwich or pastry item with a piece of fruit. Nothing too exciting but it was a decent perk. If you plan on participating in this race, give yourself I little extra time because you have to show ID to get onto the base and you have to drive slowly through the base to the parking area of the race. read more

I had soo much fun! I'm definitely doing this every year that I can. That is all the info you need, sign up! Read on only if you want a ton of boring details.. I signed up for wave 2 reverse triathlon (finish times above 1.5 hrs). It's a 5k run to a 13.1 mile bike ride then a 200 meter pool swim. I've only done an indoor triathlon before so this was a good first experience. This wave is the last start time for any races of the day so I enjoyed sleeping in and watching the first wave during their transitions. I do feel bad for the first wave though since we share a transition area, some wave 2 people were in their way. Also a bummer was that the vendors were gone by the time we finished! There was Zoot gear on super sale that I wanted to purchase but didn't have time before my race! The website said to arrive 2 hours early.. I got there about 8:50 am (mandatory meeting at 9:45 am & start time was supposed to be 10:15 am but we started maybe 15 minutes late since people were still on the course). I had no trouble getting onto the base (I heard traffic getting in is crazy in the morning though, so leave early if your race is earlier). Parking area is huge and right next to all the activities, super convenient. I had plenty of time to pick up my packet and set up my transition area.. it was just a tight squeeze since most of the bike rack space was taken up by the time I got there. As I mentioned though I did not give myself enough time to peruse the vendors before my race, but I don't like to anyways bc I'm nervous about the race. It would've been ideal to pick up my packet Friday but I didn't want to drive in traffic and had to study for exams! As for the race.. I wish they split our waves into smaller waves because the first part of the run is a small path which got way crowded. Also wish they had water stations inside the transition area, so bring plenty of water! I didn't get a great 5k time for being such a flat course. Nothing special to see, just the runway. Then we finish the 5k into the transition area.. bike out and do 3 laps. It was a nice n easy course for me. I enjoyed being lapped by the elite cyclists. Then quite a far walk/jog to the pool. This part was super crowded surprisingly. At the end someone kicked me trying to finish 1 second before me. I like their 50 meter length pool, but did not enjoy the chaos in there. It's more difficult to maneuver around people back stroking. It felt so amazing jumping into the pool since it was hot & even better crossing the finish line while they announce my name & time! I'm now addicted to triathlons. The race directors definitely know what they're doing and throw a great event. Love the family feel. The volunteers were hot or cold though, mostly super friendly. None of them seemed very knowledgeable though, never got any questions answered. It also seemed inconvenient and inefficient the way they walked around to write our bib numbers on our arms, they should have done it systematically to make sure everyone is marked. This is probably also one of the best expos I've seen even though I didn't get to experience it all that much. read more

I am giving this two stars because I found today very frustrating due to the lack of organization and staffers that had little training on how to assist parents and racers. The informational meeting did not cover all aspects of the race and should have had more in depth explanation of the course and what to expect. Our son raced in the 7-8 year old class and in the first race he was the second runner in, then when he got on his bike at the dismount station some staffer told him to go around again when he was done and should have moved on to the pool. I have no idea why this happened but it was very frustrating to learn that everyone else did just one lap with the bike. For $55 per racer--the organizers need to step it up and do better next year especially for the little ones. read more

This race couldn't have been better organized. I participate in a lot of races and I was very impressed by the race organizers putting together a well planned event. The race itself was pretty basic, we ran up and down the airstrip but I liked the fact it was open and we weren't stuff in bottleneck situations were you can't move past race walkers. Thanks for a great race! read more

The course is flat, fast and flat for the 10K. I amazed myself with a 57:20 10K which is not my best time, which happens to be 53:20 but i was recovering from anemia this time. This is the first stand alone 10K i have run after doing 7 half marathons. The tech short is awesome, there is no big bathroom problem, they give you food. It was quite lovely. read more

This was my first year participating in this event and I ran the 10K. This event also included a triathlon, a roller skating race, a 5K, and a 10K. I arrived at the base around 6:00AM for a 7:00AM race start. Traffic was backed up for over a half mile due to base security checks. There were numerous traffic control attendants (both military and volunteers) which made things smoother, but it was quite a ways into the base and it took about 30-45 minutes to park and pick up my bib. Getting there early is a must! There were thousands of participants in this race, and the 5K and 10K runners/walkers all started together. This race desperately is in need of wave starts and appropriate signage to encourage people of similar paces to start together (faster runners up front, etc). The start line area is very narrow and even though the event is chip timed, it still takes a long time to make your way to the start line. Once you are on the course, expect to weave your way around all of the walkers, strollers, and people jogging all the way across the path. Don't try to get off path or you will be running in grass. I almost twisted my ankle. Although this course is definitely "fast and flat", I don't think a PR is likely due to crowded course. The course was entirely on the air field of the Los Alamitos military base. It was really a pretty boring course, especially miles 2-5.5. There weren't many spectators. There were three water stops (near miles 1, 5, and 6). I didn't like how there wasn't a water stop between the first and second water stops and I really got thirsty. There were several bands/DJs on the course, which was nice. There is no shade, so sunglasses are definitely helpful! Participants were given a black, long sleeved shirt with the ROTB logo. Definitely something I'd wear. Orange drawstring backpacks were also distributed. There was a fairly large expo with numerous giveaways. The finish line had a lot of spectators, but I didn't see a clock. You got a medal (which was a really nice oversized dog tag with a plastic cover), then proceeded to get water bottles, coconut water, and bananas. I don't remember seeing any other food at the finish line. From there, you could stand in the Johnny Rebs line for your free meal. I stood in line for at least 45 minutes. The wait was awful. When I registered, I choose a breakfast burrito. When I got up to the front of the line, the lady told me they were all out and that I had to choose something else. So, I chose a chicken salad. It was actually very good. It came with your choice of dressing, apple juice, and a bag of potato chips. This was one area where way more volunteers or Johnny Rebs employees were needed. As you stood in line, there were people walking back and forth in front of you to get to/from the expo. It was a mess. The free meal was definitely appreciated though! read more

I was really impressed with the race. This has been one of the best ones I have participated in. I would recommend anyone looking to run to try this one. I really appreciated having people at the end giving bananas and water. Oh and they were giving out metal dog tags which was really nice. You can tell they go above and beyond! read more

I'm writing on behalf of my daughter a high school volunteer. She was very disappointed on how the volunteers were treated, especially her group.She said that the people in charge kept asking them to do things back to back which she didn't mind, but there were other volunteers clearly not doing a thing. they didn't even give them a break, my daughter had to ask if they could eat and she barely was able to find something. She mentioned that it was very disorganized and their volunteers were not treated well. She said too many snobby people that acted like they were entitled and treated them poorly. She will never ever volunteer at this type of event with this organization again and she will make sure her organization won't either. read more