Packet pick up for Santa to the Sea is Awesome. They allow you the option to pick up in Santa Monica which made it so much more convenient than having to dive to Oxnard or paying extra fro same day VIP pick up. Parking in Santa Monica is never easy but pick up itself was quick and the volunteers very nice.
Pre-race- We parked in a great location of upscale stores and getting on the shuttle was fast and easy. The start line was kinda sketchy in a dirty little street/alley near a trailer park but it was decorated in such a festive manner you quickly forgot about it. They had a giant Santa for gift donations. The toy drive is very important for this a race and big part of it so if you are going to run this race be sure to bring an unwrapped toy or gift card. I loved how they had energy gels,food powerade and water before the start. It was nice to kick things off that way and you could see that the crowd really appreciated it as well.
Course- This course is 100% flat except for a a very a quick shot over the freeway in the beginning. The first 6 miles are not very scenic. Its mostly industrial buildings and strawberry fields. Really the best part of the entire race are the cheer stations. Each school has a competition and the kids decorate, dress up and cheer on the runners, At he end of the race you get to vote on which was the best and the winning school gets money. The kids really go all out so its neat to see what’s around the next bend. At the halfway point they had cinnamon buns and pretzels and the course really gets scenic at that point. You travel down holiday lane past some nicely decorated homes.
Finish line- The finish line was amazing lots of energy and photographers. Santa was calling out names making each runners feel super special. They had a TON of food and Red Bull at the finish. Lots of vendors and a neat farmers markets next door. One thing that stood out about this race was the volunteers. Every single one I passed thanked me for running including the officers controlling traffic. It was reminder to me of how in important this race is to the city of Oxnard and much they truly appreciate the runners. Plus you get a cool little Santa medal. It’s a fun race on a flat, fast course whats not to love!