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Submitted by Scott Devine
October 27, 2014
Review
RACE: Los Angeles Rock ‘n’ Roll Half Marathon
DATE: October 26, 2014
LOCATION: Downtown Los Angeles
DISTANCES: Half Marathon/5K
START TIME: 7:00am
WEATHER AT START: 61°/ Partly Cloudy
FINISHERS: 7762 (Half Marathon)/ 1264 (5K)
This year marked the 5th running of the LA Rock ‘n’ Roll Half Marathon as thousands of costume-clad Angelenos lined the streets near the Staples Center for a pre-Halloween romp through the city streets.
REGISTRATION/EXPO
As part of the Rock ‘n’ Roll series, registration costs for the LA Rock ‘n’ Roll Half tend to be on the higher side, but there are plenty of ways around paying out through the nose. Of course, first of all you can always pay as early as possible before rates go up. In addition, you could choose one of the group deals that Rock ‘n’ Roll offers, either the season pass or the 3-pack of races for $199 (the route I went this year). In addition, Rock ‘n’ Roll likes to give discounts through social media (check your FB page) and they typically run a $13 off special for all of their races on the 13th of each month.
The expo for the race was held at the LA Convention Center in downtown Los Angeles. Convention Center parking was $10 and there are also plenty of nearby lots for you to choose from. I decided to stretch my legs a bit and parked a few blocks away, saving myself the parking cost and instead fed a meter for far less. The expo itself is a decent size, with plenty of vendors on hand for you to check out the latest racing gear, sample some of the running grub available or sign up for upcoming races. And once again, the main sponsor for this year’s race was the ASPCA, so their paw prints were all over the expo as racers stepped up to show their support for our four-legged friends.
NOTE: Runners had to pick up their own bibs; no exceptions.
MEDALS/SHIRT/SWAG
The LA Rock ‘n’ Roll Half Marathon seems to have planted itself firmly on the weekend closest to Halloween, so “things that go bump in the night” have become an ongoing presence, blended with the series’ Rock ‘n’ Roll theme. Racers voted for the medal this year (from three options), which features a guitar-riding witch sailing over the LA skyline complete with a giant spider web in the background. The design is a bit busy, but still a decent bit of bling complete with a Halloween-orange ribbon (yellow for the 5K). And the Rock ‘n’ Roll series does have additional bling for those people running multiple races this year, including the “Cali Combo” and their signature “heavy medals.”
Racers didn’t get to vote on the tech shirt, which is a shame because this year’s edition felt like a step backward from last year’s cool design. The 2014 shirt is white in color (sorry, I’m just not a fan of white shirts… I feel it’s lazy) and featured a gray muted mash-up design of musical notes, speakers, palm trees and a witch (remember, it’s Halloween) overlaid by an orange-colored outline of the letters “LA.” In my opinion, not one of their better shirts (give the racers a say next year, perhaps). Racers were also given a black drawstring backpack, which doubled as a gear check bag.
TRANSPORTATION/PARKING
Since the race begins near the Staples Center, parking is not much of an issue (as long as you avoid the street closures) and racers can park at the convention center or one of the nearby lots. But be prepared to spend anywhere from $10-$20. I chose to take the Metrorail downtown, parking at the Universal City lot and grabbing the Red Line train to 7th Street (about 1/3 mile from the start area). Round trip only cost $3.50 ($1.75 each way, plus $1 if you need a TAP card) or you can purchase a day pass for $7. The trip for me only took about 30 minutes on the train, about the same as driving downtown and finding parking, plus it’s pretty stress-free.
COURSE
The course was the same as last year, featuring a modified “Out & Back” route. Starting at the Staples Center you head south on city streets, looping around the LA Coliseum and making your way back past the Staples Center around mile 6. After that, you head north through the 2nd Street tunnel, along Figueroa and Flower before a back & forth across the popular 6th Street bridge and then back toward downtown and the finish. The course itself is mostly flat with the only true incline being on the 6th St. bridge (and you do get to run back down it).
I once again had an issue with the length of the course, as it seemed to be longer than 13.1 miles (my GPS came in at almost 13.4). Be sure to cut corners as tight as etiquette allows and don’t weave too much, if you want to make sure you don’t add too much length.
NOTE: Be aware that your GPS will almost certainly lose its connection during your two trips through the 2nd St. tunnel. Fortunately, my Garmin recalculated shortly after emerging both times.
SERVICES
LA Rock ‘n’ Roll typically has decent course services at their races. Plenty of porta-potties were on hand at the start line and there were adequate water/energy drink stops (Gatorade Endurance was the drink of choice for 2014) manned by energetic volunteers. Gu gels were given out around mile 9 on the course. I also saw plenty of medical tents along with support personnel cruising the course on bicycles. I did have an issue with one of the services, as I signed up for runner tracking (along with a friend or two) and no one received any text updates. Not sure if there was a ghost in the machine (remember, it’s Halloween) system wide or just a glitch with mine.
FINISH/POST PARTY
Rock ‘n’ Roll races also tend to have good finish line/post race activities. After receiving my finisher’s medal from a volunteer I made my way along the chute and received a decent array of snacks, including: water, chocolate milk, gatorade, tiny bags of snack mix and bananas. Once again, no bags on hand to carry our post-race bounty, but maybe they’ll get it right next year.
The post party was located near the exterior of the Nokia Theater and featured a stage with music and a Michelob Ultra beer tent (each 21+ racer got a ticket for a free post-race brew along with their bib). There were also a few other vendors around giving out some swag as well as Rock ‘n’ Roll tent where runners could grab some last minute race merchandise.
RECOMMENDATION
This was my second time running the LA Rock ‘n’ Roll Half Marathon and it felt very similar (not in a bad way) to last year’s race. I enjoy the runners in costumes as well as the downtown course. And while there is room for improvement… better job on the shirts next year please, it’s a fun local race, well-organized and one that I plan to continue on an annual basis.
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Submitted by AllisonHoban
October 30, 2013
Review
This was my first Rock ‘N Roll race (but my 15th half) and it was a really nice race experience.
Pre-Race: The expo was well laid out and had more free stuff than I’ve ever gotten at a race expo before. I felt like I was trick-or-treating for mini protein bars. I agree with other reviewers – don’t pay so much to park! I found a meter a couple blocks away and paid $1 for 1 hour.
Course: A little boring, but I’m spoiled by all the SoCal oceanside courses. The LA Coliseum and the couple hills added some interest, and the costumed runners meant that I was never bored. My favorite part was the 2nd Street tunnel. Even though it made me lose satellites (I’m assuming this is why my Garmin measured the course long – 13.42) they were pumping some loud, upbeat music through the tunnel which was awesome and made me pick up the pace!
Post-Race: Tons of food/drink (mini Jamba Juices FTW). I didn’t hit up the beer tent or the post-race concert, though. One tip – pre-plan a meeting place with your group! I’m used to small races where my husband can find parking, and then find me at the finish, and since I didn’t bring my phone we had a little trouble finding each other. (Thank you to the runner who let me use his iPhone so I could find my husband!).
Overall: a fun race. I think big races like this are especially great for first-timers. RnR is good about giving instructions, making sure you have lots of pics, and giving you a good experience.
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Submitted by Serg26.2
October 29, 2013
Review
I have run Rock n Roll Los Angeles since the inaugural race in 2010. It gets better every year from the pre-race expo, atmosphere on race day, as well as the pre-race and post race organization. Like Scott wrote, my Garmin also registered this course as long. I wrote it off to the 2nd Street tunnel that we ran through, twice. I lost signal both times and thought this may have caused my Garmin to register an incorrect distance. I also used the Metro to travel downtown from Union Station. I took the Red Line and then transferred to the Blue Line at the 7th and Metro Station. The Blue Line dropped me off at Flower and Pico, just two blocks from the Start/Finish area. Taking the Metro saved me $20 bucks in parking, which is what I paid last year when I elected to park in one of the lots near L.A. Live.
The weather in Los Angeles this time of year is always perfect running/race weather. I also like the atmosphere with all the costumed characters in the race. It definitely makes this race fun, since the course itself is not the most scenic, unless you like the sights of downtown L.A.
All in all, I would recommend this race to others. I will be back next year for #5!
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Submitted by Serg26.2
October 29, 2013
Review
I have run Rock n Roll Los Angeles since the inaugural race in 2010. It gets better every year from the pre-race expo, atmosphere on race day, as well as the pre-race and post race organization. Like Scott wrote, my Garmin also registered this course as long. I wrote it off to the 2nd Street tunnel that we ran through, twice. I lost signal both times and thought this may have caused my Garmin to register an incorrect distance. I also used the Metro to travel downtown from Union Station. I took the Red Line and then transferred to the Blue Line at the 7th and Metro Station. The Blue Line dropped me off at Flower and Pico, just two blocks from the Start/Finish area. Taking the Metro saved me $20 bucks in parking, which is what I paid last year when I elected to park in one of the lots near L.A. Live.
The weather in Los Angeles this time of year is always perfect running/race weather. I also like the atmosphere with all the costumed characters in the race. It definitely makes this race fun, since the course itself is not the most scenic, unless you like the sights of downtown L.A.
All in all, I would recommend this race to others. I will be back next year for #5!
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Submitted by Scott Devine
October 29, 2013
Review
The LA Rock ‘n’ Roll series hosted its 4th annual race this past weekend in downtown LA, featuring a Half-marathon and Mini-marathon (3.5 mile untimed run). Taking place on Halloween weekend, the race definitely brought out some wonderful costumes. I saw everything from a guy riding an ostrich, to several participants of Mario Kart and a plethora of superheroes (DC and Marvel). My hat is off to the lady sporting the Milla Jovovich “Leeloo” tape outfit from THE FIFTH ELEMENT…beware of chafing. The officials said there were 13,000 people running, although according to results board the half marathon had about 7300 finishers. The weather was overcast, but not too cold…actually really good running conditions. Here’s my review about the race’s various components…enjoy!
REGISTRATION/PACKET PICK-UP- The Rock ‘n’ Roll series races tend to be a little pricier than local races, but that extra cost typically shows in the good organization of the race (Las Vegas Rock ‘n’ Roll 2011 being a horrible exception). So, save yourself some bucks and register early…or you can wait and on the 13th of each month they typically have a $13 discount on Facebook (Like ‘em and tell ‘em Scott sent you). The packet pick-up was located at the LA Convention Center on Friday and Saturday (typically no race day registration) and was easy to navigate. Your swag came in a re-usable orange backpack/bag (Halloween colors y’all) and there were plenty of vendors to get your fill of running gear and free samples. One bit of advice, save your $15 for Convention parking and look for street parking. I found a meter 5 blocks away and spent a measly $2…and then used the savings to drop $10 on an overpriced LA Rock ‘n’ Roll logo beer glass.
TRANSPORTATION/PARKING- Since the race was located in downtown LA, there were plenty of parking options available…from LA Live, to the convention center to other lots in the city. Rates were anywhere from $10-$20 depending on where you choose to park. I decided to go the Metro Rail route, parking at Universal City and for the cost of a $5 day pass ($6 if you need to buy a TAP card) took an easy trip on the Red Line that let me off blocks from the start line.
T-SHIRT/MEDALS- Rock ‘n’ Roll knows how to do their bling. While I was expecting a black-colored shirt (it was Halloween weekend after all), the blue shirt certainly didn’t disappoint, sporting a very cool “skull” themed logo. The finisher’s medal was equally well designed (had some real heft to it) also showing off the skull logo. And those who run multiple Rock ‘n’ Roll races in a single calendar year get additional medals. It’s a win/win as the company gets more racers and in turn the runners get a little additional bling for their loyalty.
COURSE*- The course was a back & forth route starting at the Staples Center and traversing the streets of downtown LA. It featured a loop around the LA Coliseum before heading back near the start line and traveling north, through the 2nd Street tunnel, traversing Figueroa and Flower before heading east and over the famed 6th Street bridge. Then it was a turnaround at the end of the bridge (just before a rock stage) and back to the finish line, right near where you started. The course was mostly flat with a few exceptions (around mile 6 and of course the bridge). I’m typically not a big fan of back & forth routes (running in one direction while you see other runners going in the opposite direction) but there were so many costumes, I didn’t mind. One thing worth noting for you GPS wearers…you will lose your satellite connection each time you go through the 2nd Street tunnel.
*NOTE: Here is my lone big complaint with the race. It seems like the course itself was not measured properly and was actually longer than 13.1 miles (at least an extra .1 mile). I typically run tangents and don’t swerve, so I add very little distance to my race (usually no more than .1 miles for a half marathon). For some reason, around mile 10 we suddenly seemed to be a full .15 miles off. My end GPS had the race listed at 13.35 miles. I checked this out with at least a dozen other veteran runners and they all had the same results and concerns. LA Rock ‘n’ Roll should check this out.
COURSE SERVICES- Thumbs up to LA Rock ‘n’ Roll for the abundance of porta potties (and plenty near the starting line)…other races could learn from you. The course was very well marked and had plenty of support staff. Water stops were every mile with Gatorade every other mile. I know some people were initially concerned with the water tanks/hoses they used to fill the cups (sanitary reasons), but I never saw a shortage of water nor heard of any problems during or after the race. I also like that they had a table at one point in the middle of the race with salt packets (something many runners overlook…don’t mess with hyponatremia). Oh, and since it’s a “Rock ‘n’ Roll” race, the course is lined with numerous local bands belting out high energy tunes.
FINISH LINE SERVICES/POST PARTY- The Rock ‘n’ Roll series also knows how to wrap up a race. After getting your medal and obligatory “finisher photo” taken, we were shuffled off to the vendors for some much needed post-race goodies. From water, to fruit, carbs, chocolate milk and Gatorade there was plenty to quench your thirst…my favorite were the little Jamba Juice samplers…they really hit the spot. Two things of note were missing. The first is Mylar blankets…once you hit October, things could get cold so a Mylar wrap would have been a nice touch. The other is a more personal gripe. Nothing minimizes the joy of post race snackage than not having a bag to put your food in. I asked officials and they said “Well, that keeps people from taking too much stuff.” Really? I’ve been at plenty of races that give out bags or have the snacks pre-wrapped in a bag. My final solution, I went to the souvenir tent and bought a luggage tag for $6 just so I could get a bag (they wouldn’t give me one without a purchase, I asked). I would have liked my free Ultra beer, but there were too many other thirsty people to warrant the long wait outside the beer area and I didn’t bring my ID (another thing that could be handled a little better). The post party was enjoyable as Cracker was the headline band on the stage outside LA Live. I would have stayed for their whole set but I was sweaty, a little cold and had a Metro Rail to catch.
All nitpicky gripes aside (except for the distance thing), the LA Rock ‘n’ Roll is a really well put together race and a worthy addition to any half marathoner’s race schedule.
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Submitted by eddied26.2
April 3, 2012
Review
I ran this race in 2010 to pace a friend. It was super convenient for me since I already live in Downtown LA and the finish line was at LA Live. The Start of the race was at Griffith Park so I took the bus there. No issues at the start, Music at the start but nothing too crazy!
The route had the opportunity to be better, but there were some points where we ran though very “dead’ sections meaning, not only no crowd support but nothing to see either. Some parts of were nice other part of the race were just so so. There were a few out and backs here and there, Griffith Park and Echo Park were nice as was finishing downtown but much of the course left something to be desired. The route was hillier than was expected but nothing too crazy.
The post race festivities were outstanding! Concerts, beers, etc. plus your right there at LA Live with plenty of food and entertainment options for post race!
I think this race can easily be an A race but the course has to be improved. Many runners remember the City Of Angels half marathon very fondly, and this is the race that has replaced it. Competitor group needs to show people why having them take over was a good thing.
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Submitted by firenurse03
February 29, 2012
Review
A pretty fun race and very organized and one of the most fun half marathon in the Rock ‘n’ Roll marathon series. Great Expo with lots of vendors and great running gear! Sampling of the MGD 64 was interesting. Packet pick-up was a breeze though don’t park inside the convention center and pay the parking fee. Park across the street where it’s free. The course itself was okay. It was interesting to go through downtown L.A. though there was almost a fight breaking out while we were running on the course. However, there were so many cops everywhere that I didn’t feel unsafe at all. Running through the Coliseum and through the tunnel was great, and the view of the L.A. skyline running down the bridge was quite breathtaking! I’ve never seen L.A. the way I did that day before! The post-race concert was great (it was Bret Michaels) and the beer garden was okay. As like the other RNR races I’ve run, they gave plenty of food and drinks at the finish line, plenty of water stations & aid stations as well! Love how they also gave out GU’s right around mile 9 and 10. That’s always a plus! Love the band at every mile, too!! Could use a better looking course, but it was still an interesting one! A fun race overall and will run it again. However, make sure to get there early before the road blocks. It was frustrating trying to find my way to L.A. Live once the roads were blocked and none of the cops would tell you the correct way to go to avoid the road blocks!! Ended up having to pay $20 to park at a nearby lot that looked a bit sketchy! Fortunately, my car was still in one piece by the time I finished the race. Remember where you park bc it can get really confusing in downtown L.A.! My advice to definitely get there early in order to park inside the parking garage at L.A. Live and make it easier for yourself!
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Submitted by crystal
February 29, 2012
Review
This review is for the Inaugural Rock n Roll Los Angeles half marathon that took place in 2010. I had heard horror stories of Rock n Roll Inaugural events, so I went into this race with a bit of skepticism. As it turned out, I need not have worried. In 2010, this race was a point to point race, starting at Griffith Park and ending at LA Live. Parking was available at the LA convention center, and it was a short walk to LA Live, where we had to take buses to the start at Griffith Park. It was a 15 minute ride to Griffith Park, and we had to hike up a small hill to get to the UPS gear drop off trucks. Port a potties were plenty along the corrals and we did not have to wait long. The corrals were not really monitored, so you did not necessarily have to go to your own corral.
Race start went smoothly, and we were off through Griffith Park. The course was pleasant despite a few hills, and I enjoyed the live music throughout the race. Running the final leg through downtown LA was great! I did not stay to enjoy the post-race festivities, but it looked like it was well set-up.
I thought this was a very well run inaugural race, especially for Rock n Roll. I liked the point to point course, and did not mind the buses. In 2011 they switched to a loop course that just did not look as exciting, although I did not run it so I can not say for sure.
In 2010, they had unisex tech shirts, but in 2011 they had gender specific ones! Rock on!
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