1. Reaching for the Cure Half Marathon
Irvine; 800-354-7373, pcrf-kids.org
It really is all about the kids at this popular annual event that serves as a major fundraiser for the Pediatric Cancer Research Foundation of Irvine.
“What our runners talk about over and over again is that we really have the feel-good vibe locked down,” said Erin Arreola, director of special events at the Pediatric Research Center.
“The kids are front and center in this event unlike any other event we do,” said Jonathan Pauley, race director and owner of Renegade Race Series, which stages the race along with dozens of other races, runs, triathlons and other sports across the Southland.
For 21 years, the event, which includes a half marathon, 10- and 5-kilometer and kids runs, a 5-kilometer walk and a variety of bike routes, has been a community staple.
While many running events support charities, Arreola said funds from Reaching For the Cure are focused on the best, cutting-edge cancer research.
And, “organically, when you see the kids you’re helping right there, it’s not just another run to get your miles in,” she said.
Each year the event draws about 5,000, with 3,500-3,700 runners, plus about 200 for the kids’ run, and raises $250,000 to fund the fight against cancer in children.
Particularly popular is the finish line area which features a large kids zone with rides, a petting zoo, bounce houses, obstacle course and games and activities.
Another element that sets the event apart is the Pediatric Cancer Research Foundation. Many of the teams sign up for the event, bring tents and other gear and “adopt” a child who is either suffering from cancer or recovered.
“They really rally around the kids and it’s a huge social event,” Pauley said. “It a real hopeful and heartstrings event.”
2. Surf City USA Marathon
Huntington Beach; 562-795-8900; motivrunning.com/run-surf-city
Orange County’s oldest full marathon is certainly among its most picturesque. Runners can take in views of surfers, long stretches of Surf City’s famed beach and pier, the dog beach, and Bolsa Chica wetlands and state beach.
“It’s definitely one of those iconic races,” said Dan Cruz, event spokesman, “ not only in California but worldwide.”
“It’s 26 miles of scenic beauty,” he added
Cruz said last year a group of about 100-150 runners from Chicago came in part to escape the polar vortex and Japanese distance sensation Suguru Osako, holder of that country’s record in the marathon, ran the Surf City Half-Marathon in 2019.
The course is flat and fast and with a half marathon, 5-kilometer run, a Saturday 1-mile sand run, an obstacle course on the beach for kids and a three-day expo, participants can fill up a weekend with activities. Bands and entertainers typically line the course as well and the race features a unique and popular surfboard finisher’s medal.
The race is traditionally held on Super Bowl Sunday morning, which has become a popular and enduring feature.
Cruz said runners enjoy getting up early that morning and getting in their miles.
“Your post-race party is already set and you’ve earned your celebration,” he said.
3. Dana Point Turkey Trot
Dana Point; 949-496-1555 ext. 101, turkeytrot.com
Turkey trots can be found scattered across Southern California on Thanksgiving day. But to Orange County Register readers, Dana Point is the best.
As scenic as any race in Orange County, the Dana Point Turkey Trot meanders along the shores of the city’s famed harbor area and Doheny State Beach and has been a holiday tradition for 41 years. The flat, scenic race features 10- and 5-kilometer runs and a kids Gobble Wobble.
Presented by the Dana Point Chamber of Commerce and a perennial winner of local Golden Lantern awards, the secret is now out. The race began as a fundraiser with 300 people and pizza and beer awaiting at the finish line. Now upwards of 10,000 flock to the seaside town to get their run on before sitting down for their turkey comas.
Also, not to be missed is the costume contest, which draws some wild wear.