This was my 2nd year running the Hollywood Half Marathon and while I didn’t have any major issues with the Inaugural Race you could see evident improvements this year.
Packet Pick Up: Easy Peasy. I was with a non-running friend (stopped on our way to the Kings Game) so I didn’t get to stay long but we were in and out in less than 10 minutes. Got to check out the awesome pace car, talk with the race organizers a bit and headed out to the game.
Getting to the Race/Race Start: I had heard some people had issues with the shuttles from the Universal Hotels to the start. People, I don’t work for them, not generally a fan of Public Transportation, especially in LA, but the Metro Red Line is THE WAY TO GO!!! We got from Universal Station to Hollywood/Vine Station in about 6 minutes. Exited the station and Bag Check was RIGHT THERE. Checked my bag, had a nice walk up Hollywood Blvd to the start and got there in PLENTY of time. Took some pictures with some friends, got to use the potty and was in my Corral with about 10 minutes to spare. Race Started right on time. No stress.
The Course: The course was great. Running up Hollywood Blvd. never gets old. The hills on Silver Lake while somewhat expected still brought a challenge, which I love. I don’t mind hills, I train on them often and I always look to be challenged on a course. Flat courses are fun too but sometimes you need the challenge. There was plenty of course support, some musical acts and spectators sprinkled throughout. I think once this race really catches on in the local area spectators will become more prevalent. This was the first year for this course remember.
The Finish: The Medal, what can you say. It’s amazing. But what else would you expect? Finish area’s are always crowded but I had no trouble finding friends at the finish, getting water, bagel, banana and my bag. Then it was a quick walk back to the Hollywood and Vine station and an 8 minute subway ride. I was back at my car in no time flat.
