The inaugural 10K addition brought at least 1,600 more runners into La Jolla for the annual Kiwanis fundraiser.
The La Jolla Half Marathon raced into La Jolla Cove May 16, bringing more than 10,000 runners, cheerleaders and support staff to Scripps Park, making it the largest in the event’s history.
“A lot of people had a blast,” race director Bart Calame said, with cooperative weather adding to the positive energy.
A record 9,850 runners braved the hills along Torrey Pines Road from Del Mar into La Jolla May 16 for the annual La Jolla Half Marathon and 5K, which this year launched a 10K.
Calame attributes the “huge growth” from just under 8,000 runners last year to the inaugural 10K, which drew about 1,600 more entrants.
The event, organized by the Kiwanis Club of La Jolla as a fundraiser for its programs, grants to local nonprofits and other activities, now features three start lines: The half marathon (13.1 miles) begins at the Del Mar Fairgrounds; the 10K (6.2 miles) begins on Torrey Pines Road just after the steep incline at Torrey Pines State Beach; and the 5K (3.1 miles) begins in La Jolla Shores.
“It went as well as I can expect,” Calame said, noting the race drew elite athletes, social runners and more.
Once at Scripps Park, runners indulged in treats and complimentary massages, rested on the grass or strolled the vendor village and beer garden.
Calame estimates that this year’s race raised more than $400,000 for Kiwanis.
“We’ll keep it going,” he said.
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