What is the LA Marathon?
The Los Angeles Marathon is an annual 26 mile (42 km) Los Angeles run race whose course has changed several times in its history. The one through-line of all the courses (in true LA style) is the entertainment, music and dancing that takes place along the way.
Attracting local, national and international athletes in the tens of thousands, the LA Marathon relies on thousands of volunteers. It draws hundreds of thousands of spectators along its alternating routes. It is one of the largest organized road races in the country. Recent courses have taken runners from Dodger Stadium through West Hollywood, Beverly Hills and Santa Monica.
Where can I find more info on the LA Marathon?
On the LA Marathon website.
What is the NPN LA Marathon 5K?
Usually on the day before the actual LA Marathon, this shorter race, known as the official warm-up for the LA Marathon, takes place.
When does the Los Angeles Marathon take place?
Every spring (usually March but sometimes May).
History of the LA Marathon
The first LA Marathon was run on March 9, 1986. Some credit this as the first migration of marathon racing to the West. The inaugural also came on the heels of Los Angeles hosting the olympics in 1984. It drew over 10,000 participants.
Participating in the LA Marathon
Every person wishing to run in the LA Marathon must register, after which he/she will receive a bib#. Your registration fee covers a range of features including medical support, water stations, two-day Health and Fitness Expo, shirt, post-race massage, finisher certificate and more.
LA Marathon Registration Costs
Los Angeles Marathon (general): $125
Los Angeles Marathon (international participants): $150
LA Roadrunners training program: $125
LA Roadrunners training program and LA Marathon: $210
NPN Los Angeles Marathon 5K: $35
Los Angeles Marathon and NPN LA Marathon 5K: $150
LA Marathon Records
Men: Wesley Korir of Kenya (2:08:24)
Women: Tatiana Petrova of Latvia (2:25:59)
WC Men: Kurt Fearnley of Australia (1:23:40)
WC Women: Jean Driscoll of Ohio (1:46:09)
Tips From Los Angeles Area Residents Who Have Run the LA Marathon
Denise Ludwig, car products entrepreneur:
- Train with a group like Ventura Roadrunners or LA Roadrunners, starting six months before the marathon.
- Buy: Body Glide (anti-chafing stick), toe socks of cool-max material, Camelback water bottle, throwaway sweats and jacket for start.
Dean Karnazes, author and speaker:
- Study the new course. It may be cooler than usual at the finish, because it’s now on the coast, and you may be running against a persistent headwind.
- Layer your clothing accordingly.
- The race doesn’t begin until mile 20. Save some “gas in the tank” for the final 10K.
- Have someone waiting at the finish with warm clothing.
Joan Hunter Mayer, behavior counselor and coach:
- Know your pace and where you fit in at the start line. If there are no corrals for start times, then place yourself at the most logical place to help avoid being run over by faster people, or having to cut through the crowds. (Slower folks need to stay towards the back).
- Have some self-awareness around the aid stations: watch before you jump over and get water, reach your arm across, or throw your cup.
- If you're running with friends, be aware of the course and make sure you're keeping enough room available so others may get by. You don't want to inadvertently create a "wall".
- Keep to the exact same schedule the days before and day of the race! Making changes from your regular training runs and routine can mess you up race day.
