This was my second time running the Half at Long Beach, and it was a blast! Really great environment, smooth and beautiful course, and a new personal best for me! Yes! The race organizers also did a great job with vaccine/testing requirements, and held the expo outside this year, which definitely felt safer. The course was the same as previous years, and can be divided roughly into four parts.

-Miles 1-5: the thickest crowds as you navigate twisty roads, multiple turnarounds, and go over and under bridges. The bridge here is the only significant elevation change on the course, so it was kinda nice to get it out of the way early.
-Miles 5-7: all the touristy landmarks including the Aquarium, Shoreline Park, and views of the Queen Mary. This was probably my favorite portion of the race since all the sights made the run easier!
-Miles 7-10: in theory, a straight, long stretch along the beach can be soothing, with all that pretty sand and water on your right. But in reality, seeing the same exact sight for multiple miles gets boring real fast. This segment was also the least shaded, provided the least aid support, and had the fewest crowds cheering you on. In my previous race, I suffered the most here, but I think the earlier start time and cooler weather this year made it more bearable.
-Miles 10-13: rounding onto Ocean Blvd, the crowds and aid stations are back. You’re in the city again, in the shade again, with all the local businesses and residents out to support you! I really got a kick of energy during this stretch, and I felt pumped all the way down to the finish line.

-Post-race: a nice-looking medal, your usual combo of snacks (banana, chocolate milk, protein bar, water) and a beer festival if you’re up for it. Organizers and volunteers were really pleasant and helpful!

-Things to improve? I do wish there were more aid stations, especially along the beach stretch. I also was NOT a fan of the shirt this year, going with a cheaper cotton/poly blend (same as Surf City this fall, another Motiv race…). What and WHY? Cotton shirts are an absolute “no” during long runs, and soak up sweat so much easier. These shirts also felt flimsier than your usual tech shirts. Hopefully this changes next year.

All in all, a really great race that I would recommend.