(Half #6, 2015) Now…read moreTHIS is an Elite Sports run I can appreciate. Actually, any course along California's beautiful coastline scores stellar marks in my book. The ocean breeze, salt in the air; the morning sun stretching over the horizon; crashing waves, golden sand, blue skies: all contribute to an energized run. If you've run the Ventura Marathon, Seaside begins in the same area; however, instead of running south along the coast, Seaside takes you north. The course is relatively flat and certainly scenic. The water stations were well-stocked, and gel packs were made available as well. Parking was simple, as well: there's a structure right on the Promenade. Paying $8 will get you an all-day parking pass; however, we received a quick validation from a nearby restaurant, which knocked off $4 from our parking. What's really cool about Elite Sports' races, though, is their "Endurance Challenge": running seven of their Half marathons awards a challenge medal at the year's end. I want that! For more information about the Endurance Challenge, check here: elitesportsca.com/Endura.... And, even cooler, is that Elite Sports' races are included in the CA Half Series (http://calhalfseries.com), which--if you're into Halfs--awards a 10-, 15-, and 20-run series medal at the end of the year. Running seven of Elite Sports' inches you closer to the halfway mark! TIP: If you plan to run any of Elite Sports' or the CA Half Series' races, check out RaceShed (http://raceshed.com); it gives "race for less" discounts and promo codes.

Incredibly picturesque. Easy run, a good half for beginners. When arriving to the seaside itself…read more.. Stunning. Your mind just wanders away adrift on salt spray in the air. Very nice mix of running paths and city streets. Fairly well attended with aid stations. Not many spectators until the very end but a great reception party complete with beer and tacos. What more can you ask for?

I joined the LA Leggers for the 2019-2020 marathon training season, making the switch after being a…read morelong-time member of another training program.  The LA Leggers "clubhouse" is inside the historic Santa Monica Camera Obscura building overlooking the Pacific Ocean in Palisades Park near the world-famous Santa Monica Pier.  It is not a bad place to start your Saturday long run. The Leggers organization celebrated their 30-year anniversary during the 2019-2020 season and do they have their stuff down.  The weekly runs for each pace group are led by "Mentors".  There are 15+ groups which run and run/walk at different paces.  There are several walking groups as well. The LA Leggers offer something for everyone of all fitness levels who want to put in the work to become a "Marathoner".   Membership in the LA Leggers is for one year of weekly runs, although the marathon training season begins in late summer, culminating with the LA Marathon in March.  LA Leggers is a great organization and I recommend.   Weekly group runs have been suspended due to the pandemic and replaced with weekly Zoom meetings in order to provide support to the members.

I am not an athlete. It sounds kind of weird when I say that in the same breath that I say I've…read morecompleted 10 triathlons, a handful of 70+ mile bike rides and am currently in my second year training for the LA Marathon. But it's true just the same: I'm not an athlete. I'm a fat, slow, aging couch potato with big dreams. One of my big dreams is to do an Ironman some day...but boy, that means I have to a MARATHON. Ugh. My least favorite thing: running. Enter the LA Leggers. There are several big running groups out and about on the west side, including the HUGE one affiliated with the LA Marathon itself. I've run into that group a few times down on the beach, yelling out run chants like Army bootcamp and taking up the entire path. They look sweaty, tired and disgruntled. But every time I'd seen the LA Leggers groups running, people are laughing, smiling, enjoying the day and making running look - dare I say it? - FUN. What? Crazy talk! I joined last year and trained for the 2009 LA Marathon. Injury in November, bad sickness in December and all the crazy LAM date juggling and I was out for the season in January. August came around and I signed up for the 2010 season, determined to try again. As a non-athlete, it's been wonderful to find a "running" club as awesome as the LA Leggers. Encouraging, well-structured mentoring programs and terrific leadership combined with a truly GOOD group of people = wanting to show up and do the training every single weekend no matter how early. You make friends out there with people you would never meet otherwise, and the energy is always up up up. They welcome a wide spread of pace groups (I am in the slowest, 20 minute miles walking pace and YES, they do have walker programs!). I'm looking forward to completing my very first marathon in March, proudly wearing the Leggers name! GO LEGGERS! (And if you needed one more reason to join next year, the LA Leggers were just voted Best Running Club in LA by Competitor Magazine. All that for less than $75 bucks for an entire season! Almost unbelievable!)

This was a great race. Much smaller than others only a several hundred people and lots of kids…read moreparticipating. Starts and ends at promenade park. Packet pick up available same day. Both the 5 and 10 K head north. The 10k course has a few hills and also nice ocean views. There was water stops at 1 and 3 miles I think. Water, Gatorade and gels were available. The post race was fairly small and not too many vendors. Oranges, bananas, and pretzels available for runners. There were massage tables which are free but tips accepted please. There were a lot of giveaways here. Duffle bags, towels, water bottles, two back packs that were donated by the US Air Force and several bicycles! I was not a lucky winner but a lot of the kids got some cool stuff and that was nice to see. Being that this was a Father's Day run there were dads and kids teams. Also grandparents and grandchildren! There was a kids run too. Can't wait for my lil guy to be old enough to participate in a kids run. I recommend this run if you're new to running or even if you're not. It's a great way to spend with your child or teen or introduce running to a child.

Mia is amazing! She makes running fun, is very knowledgeable, is organized and not to mention…read moreextremely fast. Her runs are always planned out in advance so you know exactly what you are going to be doing so you can prepare yourself as needed. I have been a runner for a long time now and Mia has been able to teach me a lot (esp. around nutrition, warming up, interval training) regardless about how to train properly. I highly recommend working with MIA regardless of your performance level. And lastly she is just an awesome human and you will want to hangout with so there is that too :)

Mia has changed my perspective on running and greatly improved my form and output. I used to run…read moresolely because it would help me stay fitter, but I dreaded it every time. Mia attracts an energy to her group workouts that makes you want to work harder and also are a great time. Historically I would just static run, but she brings a different flavor by mixing in hills and intervals and both short and long distance runs. This training has shaved minutes (yes, minutes) off of my running pace and has also changed my relationship with running. I don't believe I could have gotten here on my own - Mia knows how to push you just hard enough to improve you week after week. If you are looking for a great workout with someone who knows what they're doing and a great community, M.I.A Fitness is the place to go.

(26th Half, 2015)…read more Elite Sports, its races included in the CA Half series and featuring around Ventura County, has a challenge, the Endurance Challenge: Complete ESCA events in the same calendar year, and your rewards are... ​​** 2 Events (same Distance) Half, 5k or 10k--Custom Club tech shirt. **** 4 Events (same Distance) Half, 5k or 10k--Runner's hat, ditty bag, and water bottle. ****** 6 Events (same Distance) Half, 5k or 10k--Large gear bag with Series logo. ******* 7 Events (same Distance) Half, 5k or 10k--Special Season finale medal presented at Holly Jolly Half in December! So that's why I'm here at the Holly Jolly Half and to receive my Endurance Challenge medal, one that I've worked toward for the entire year: 1. Camarillo Half (http://www.yelp.com/biz/camarillo-marathon-camarillo?ylist=run-fatboy-run-long-beach-3) 2. West Hills Half (http://www.yelp.com/biz/west-hills-half-marathon-5k-10k-los-angeles?ylist=run-fatboy-run-long-beach-3) 3. Seaside Half (http://www.yelp.com/biz/seaside-half-marathon-5k-10k-ventura?ylist=run-fatboy-run-long-beach-3) 4. Shoreline Half (http://www.yelp.com/biz/shoreline-half-marathon-ventura?ylist=run-fatboy-run-long-beach-3) 5. Arroyo Creek Half (http://www.yelp.com/biz/arroyo-creek-half-marathon-5k-10k-simi-valley?ylist=run-fatboy-run-long-beach-3) 6. Harvest Half (which was sadly cancelled, but runners received credit for the finale medal anyway.) 7. Holly Jolly Half With the exception of the Arroyo Creek Half, all medals denoted each of the races. (Since the Halfs cost more, the coinciding medal, in my opinion, should stand on its own and not include the 5K and 10K runs.) However, the runs themselves are on the cheaper side, running about $60-$70 for the Halfs, so I just look the other way. I will say that the runs themselves aren't that entertaining, aren't as scenic as I'd like; but, again, they're easier on the wallet. If you're running the Ojai Half, though, it really is gorgeous and completely worth price. (I ran it in 2014: http://www.yelp.com/biz/ojai-half-marathon-5k-and-10k-ojai?ylist=run-fatboy-run-long-beach-3). The Endurance Challenge medal is a bit disappointing as well, anticlimactic; although the Gear Bag--received after running six events--is pretty cool. Nevertheless, Elite Sports' Halfs are included in the CA Half Series, and that's why I'd also run them, pushing myself to clear 20 Halfs for the year. All said and run, I'm unsure as to whether or not I would chase the Endurance Challenge again. I would just as soon pay a bit more for a more significant end-of-the-year series medal. (Again, Ojai would be the exception.) We'll see. Elite Sports looks as though it is growing. I'll keep my eyes open.

This race was close to home and super cheap. It was a smaller scale race, not your big advertised…read morekinda of race. Cost for the race was $45 and up until October it was still under $80 for the half marathon. Website was easy to navigate through and gave all pertinent information. Packet pickup was Saturday or on race day. You received a tech tshirt and a finishers medal for completing the race. Post race included bagels, oranges, water and electrolyte drink, awards for the top 3 in each category, awards for best costume and two food trucks (The Grilled Cheese truck and the ElaBrew Coffee truck). Course was mostly flat and included some street running and the majority was on a bike/running path. The half marathon was a two loop course, which is always a bummer. I would rather, get to one point and turn around than have to run the same course twice, looking at the same thing. The worst is getting to mile 7 and seeing the finish line and then having to run past it. UGGGGGG. Such a mind tease. Water and electrolyte stations were set up every couple miles and volunteers were always ready and friendly. Pros: -low registration fee -easy parking -cool medal -The Grilled Cheese Truck -happy volunteers -good aid stations -well organized Cons: -Wish the award categories were split up into smaller categories -2 loop course is a bummer -the paint on my medal was peeling and it had a red, white and blue ribbon....wasn't this a holiday race. Would have been better with holiday colors to match the actual holiday themed medal. -wish more people dressed up. -more spectators cheering on the runners would have been nice Would I do this one again? Maybe if they considered changing the course from a two loop to a one looper.

(Half #16, 2015)…read more Running 13 miles along the beautiful beaches of Southern California--and getting a super cool medal for doing so--is an exceptional way to spend your morning, is it not? (Most of my friends whole-heartedly disagree, so let 'em.) But while most linger still in dreamland's starlit warmth, fast asleep and snuggling their pillows, shoelaced running enthusiasts congregate upon Ventura's coastline for Elite Sports' 3rd annual Shoreline Half Marathon. If you've run the Ventura Half or Elite Sports' Seaside Half, this course'll look pretty familiar. Beginning around the Ventura Promenade and Pier, Shoreline's Half courses North along the beach's rolling bike and pedestrian path. For the most part, this course is flat and even. (It's relative, I know.) A few dips are here and there, but the ocean and accompanying scenery distract, enough so that you may not even notice the simple climbs. The Half doesn't begin until 8am--the 5k and 10k follow--so it's likely you'll be running through some heat. (I'd brought a cap, and I am so glad I did because running South after the turn-around means seven miles sunward.) Bring along some sunscreen! Shoreline has multiple water/aid stations along the route, welcoming oases that certainly help as the temperature rises. Shoreline also offers its Half Marathoners free tacos and beer after the race, and that's a great perk; however, the lines for both were a bit long. We opted instead to try a taco shop upon the pier: a couple Beach House Tacos and a limed Corona seriously...hit...the...spot! (Another reason for getting tacos along the pier, by the way, was that our validated receipt awarded us free parking in the neighboring structure!) What's really cool about Elite Sports' races, though, is their "Endurance Challenge": running seven of their Half marathons awards a challenge medal at the year's end. I want that! Having run now four of Elite's Half so far, I was given another water bottle, a sweet running cap, and a great ditty bag! For more information about the Endurance Challenge, check here: elitesportsca.com/Endura.... And, even cooler, is that Elite Sports' races are included in the CA Half Series (calhalfseries.com), which--if you're into Halfs--awards a 10-, 15-, and 20-run series medal at the end of the year. Running seven of Elite Sports' inches you closer to the halfway mark! TIP: If you plan to run any of Elite Sports' or the CA Half Series' races, check out RaceShed (raceshed.com); it gives "race for less" discounts and promo codes.

First off - I understand that this was the 2nd year that this race was put on and I heard many…read morecomplaints about it from last year. So I went into this race not feeling really good about it. However - My wife and I thought overall this was a solid organized event and a fair price for what you get out of it. The prerace packet pick up was at a local Sports Authority. Basically you received the chip, race number, shirt, plastic bottle, bag and a few coupons. Not a whole lot in comparison to other races.. The pickup was rather smooth btw. Nice sectioned off area of the store. The race location iteself: Plenty of parking at the location and easy to get to. The pre announcements were loud and clear and the race started on time This was a timed race and it clearly appeared to be some confusion by racers as how the staggerred times should work becuase you saw folks that clearly should not have been going up front with the top racers. One ouch moment occurred before the race: The announcer did slip up and cursed not knowing he was still on an open Mic. he did apologize but it was a bit unproffesional - especially with a kid/family friendly event. The course for the most part was rather flat and the first couple of miles you do see the shoreline but then is spans out away from the beach and into a residential area. The first few miles were tight - thin bike path and trying to pass people was a bit difficult. One draw back with this race is that it is not exactly closed off. Racers need to contend with beachgoers and transiets that wander throughout the course. There were police and volunteers keeping traffic away. There was a bit of an uphill and then a nice long down hill with shade through the residential area during I believe miles 3-4. This race was HOT! really baked on you and drained you. My guess was that it was mid to high 70's early in the am. Refreshments: Water, gatorade and gel stations were staggered through out the race course. I know other reviewers reported to have gotten lost or confused and got off course but I honeslty thought that it was rather well directed. Post Race: There was a tent for post race results, tents for water, gatorade, bread, bannanas and oranges etc.. Also had massage tables set up and they worked for tips. Music was playing - nice grassy area Not just with this race but with all races I honeslty wish participants were more aware and courteous of other racers. Too many participants dont actually run and walk the course speading out across the lane shoulder to shoulder and talking with their friends making it very difficult for actual runners to pass... Also people that race with their dogs have got to keep them under control. (My suggestion to Organizers is to maybe do an etiquette review by the announcer prior to each race) The wife and I would do this one again - the only real draw back was it was incrediblly hot - which you just take your chances with mother nature.

2015 Half number one!…read more I enjoy running Elite Sports' Half Marathons. There are nine of them, and I've so far run three: the Ojai Half, which was absolutely gorgeous; the Arroyo Creek Half; and now the Camarillo Half. Of the three, Camarillo is my least favorite. (It just isn't as scenic as the other two.) However, it does have its pluses, many of them: 1) The run is flat, almost entirely, which makes for an easy, consistent pace. 2) It's chip-timed. 3) The cost is certainly affordable. At $56.73 (after emailed discounts) you can't beat it. Your fee not only includes a race day tech shirt and custom finishers medal, but also a custom water bottle and a reusable custom goodie bag, which I use in place of plastic at the grocery store. 4) If you're interested, the Camarillo Marathon is also a Boston Qualifier! 5) The Elite Sports Endurance Challenge: complete seven Halfs within one calendar year, and you'll be awarded the special Season Finale Medal presented at the Holly Jolly Half in December. This is why I'm in! I want the Challenge medal! 6) There are aid stations every 1.5 miles! 7) Most of Elite Sports' Halfs are held in conjunction with the California Half & Full Marathon Series, which means another challenge is in order. When I can, I'm doubling up! Nevertheless, running Elite Sports' events is fun, and I'll be looking forward to covering them all. Camarillo was a great time, as I had expected; it just isn't as memorable. And the medal, it lacks spirit and energy. (I dont mean to sound condescending, but when a Half's finisher medal is shared by the 5k and 10K runs, it loses its dazzle.) So, for Camarillo..."A-OK."

This race is practically in my backyard how could I not participate. This was my second year. Last…read moreyear I ran the 10k. This year I ran the half marathon. This year the start location changed to the Pleasant Valley Soccer Fields. Although a couple email notices went out about this some people still were not aware. There is plenty of parking in this area but again some people also had a difficult time with finding the location and I heard some people went to the old location. Bummer. Anyway, once I arrived, the start of the race went smoothly. I have to say I live in Camarillo and never ran in these back roads and it was very invigorating. I loved being in the open feel of the fields and wide roads. I even saw some animals, a pony at a ranch house and a hawk There were lots of officers making sure the roads were safe. There were plenty of water stations too. Pancakes after the race for all runners. There was only one vendor after the race which seemed odd. Our tech shirts were not ready but were mailed out about a week later. This race offers the full and half marathon, 10k and 5k. No excuses, sign up for next year!

Ventura was my first stop for the Lexus LaceUp running series. The Palos Verdes 10k in November is…read moremy next. I did the half marathon for Ventura and it was a lot more intimate than I'm used to. There were 267 participants and I'm used to races with thousands of runners. It definitely made for a different experience. The route was beautiful for the first 4 miles with scenic views of the ocean. The remainder was along a river trail, which wasn't as nice. With not as many people, I found myself running alone the last half of the race. It was therapeutic, but at the same time, didn't feel like a real running event. It felt like an ordinary training day run. There was a point where I wasn't even sure which way to go and had to ask a pedestrian if they knew which way the race was. The post race activities was excellent! Free food from food trucks or fruit juice smoothies, beer, and good giveaways. Plus our awesome tech shirt and finisher's medal! I recommend doing this running series, but would suggest doing the shorter distances (5k or 10k).