My review is biased since I am the founder and director of this event but let me tell you about all the reasons you should join us in June for this great event!
the course for the 5k & 10k have been improved in 2012- we took out a 180 degree turn that had been on the river trail in both races which will make it faster and more scenic as you will see more of the historic section of the neighborhood. the course remains very flat with a small short hill getting you on and off the LA River trail.
There are several bands on the course including a large jazz band from nearby Cabrillo HS and at least two other bands plus live music at the finish line festival. We have had the Wilson HS cheer team on course in years past and hope to have them back again this year. The community really comes out for the event cheering people on along the course
Finish line boasts the best food outside of the Brea 8k. Buono’s pizza feeds every runner with pizza and pasta plus we always have plenty of give aways from sponsors like Clif Bar, and have had a drink sponsor every year plus coffee.
There are multiple bounce houses for the kids and every kid gets a medal in the 1k.
We encourage stroller runners to start at a seperate time and give out a trophy to the top stroller runner.
The 5k & 10k are spaced apart so that if you can do 10 min miles or better, you can do both races at a discount and we have an award for the best 15k times.
Winners of the 5k and 10k get $100 certificates towards running shoes
At packet pick up the night before, you can pay $5 to take part in the Pizza Pig Out, were pizza serving restaurants from around long beach come out to battle for your votes in the best pizza in Long Beach contest. Your entry fee gets you a vote and all you can eat.
We also organize a training group that meets twice week from March to June for those who just want company on their run or who need some guidance on building up to the 5k or 10k distance.
read some other reviews at http://www.yelp.com/biz/wrigley-river-run-long-beach-2