Watch CBS News

LA Marathon Expecting Sellout For 2013 'Stadium To The Sea' Route

LOS ANGELES (CBSLA.com) — A "Stadium to the Sea" course in the New Year was expected to attract more runners as registration opened on Monday for the 2013 Los Angeles Marathon.

With over 167 days left until the opening gun, race officials are already expecting an early sellout due to the popularity of the scenic 26-mile, 385-yard route (PDF) that begins in downtown Los Angeles and ends in Santa Monica.

Race organizer Nick Curl told KNX 1070 NEWSRADIO officials have seen a huge spike in interest in the marathon ever since the route was changed to run from Dodger Stadium to the sea at Santa Monica.

"The response we've gotten from redesigning this iconic course has been overwhelming," said Curl. "People are talking about it, they wanna run it, they're registering for it, it's a great course and one that we're hearing from marathon runners...it's something they want to come and do and notch on their belt."

Next year's race will be the fourth running of the wildly popular Stadium to the Sea course, which will take participants past some of the the city's world‐famous landmarks including Walt Disney Concert Hall, Grauman's Chinese Theatre, the Capitol Records Building, Sunset Strip, Rodeo Drive and the Santa Monica Pier.

But for some runners, the prospect of sightseeing pales in comparison with they cool breeze — and maybe some much-needed momentum — that they can expect on their way to the finish line.

"The last three miles is all downhill," Curl said. "Additionally, you're running from the hot of central Los Angeles to the cool of Santa Monica, and for marathon runners that is very attractive, because they know they're going to a cooler climate versus moving into a warmer climate."

After registering 23,000 participants in the 2012 race, organizers expect to top that number next year.

Registration costs $145 with a potential price increase if the event does not reach capacity by Nov. 1.

To register or find out more, visit the official L.A. Marathon website.

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.