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Your guide to the LA Marathon

March 14, 2017 / Los Angeles

When a Griffith Park hike isn’t enough, there’s always the LA Marathon. Taking its athletes through LA’s iconic neighborhoods, the race spans a magnificent 26.2 miles from Dodger Stadium to Santa Monica. Whether you’re participating on the course or cheering on from the sidelines, here’s your guide to race day on Sunday:

Pick a neighborhood first. The LA Marathon winds through Echo Park, Downtown LA, Hollywood, Beverly Hills, and much more. Because of the big crowds, you’ll probably get a better experience by picking a neighborhood and getting to your spot early. You may also choose where to watch based on the several entertainment options for spectators at different points of the race.
Check ahead for road closures. Beginning in DTLA, roads and ramps off the 110 begin closing at 3am Sunday, so make sure to give yourself plenty of time to get to your spot. If you’re avoiding the course altogether, roads will reopen on a rolling basis throughout the morning, starting east and moving west.
Cheer on runners and non-runners alike. The LA Marathon attracts more than 25,000 athletes every year, but did you know not all of them are runners? Participants using wheelchairs and handcycles take off around 6:30am, nearly a half-hour before the Elite Men category. Impress your friends with this fun fact as these athletes zoom by.
Make a day of it. Whether you’re along San Vicente for the last 4 miles or camped out in West Hollywood, just being in Los Angeles means you’re not too far from brunch. Get inspired by the marathoners and explore the city on one of the most exciting days of the year. You’re just a tap away from your next destination.

Posted by Susan

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