If you're a local, you're probably familiar with the Santa Ana River Trail. If you live out of the area, it's an asphalt paved recreational trail that follows the Santa … MORE
If you’re a local, you’re probably familiar with the Santa Ana River Trail. If you live out of the area, it’s an asphalt paved recreational trail that follows the Santa Ana River from the inland border of Orange County all the way to the ocean. That may bring visions of lots of greenery along a serene waterway. No such luck. Almost the whole river is a giant concrete-lined flood control channel. Most of the trail runs behind nice residential areas, past sports venues, small neighborhood parks, and a golf course. A few short segments are next to industrial parks with lots of graffiti and tall fences topped with razor wire.
Buses got us to the start area with plenty of time to warm up. Aid stations were approximately every two miles with dedicated volunteers who braved some challenging weather. Pre-race emails were timely and informative. Drop bags were supplied and were right next to the finish line for easy pick up. Swag was a mix of a basic poly/cotton shirt with simple graphics and a finisher’s medal of impressive size and design. The medal even had a section imitating beach sand – appropriate since you finish in a parking lot at the beach.
Since the trail crosses under every major street and highway, you have little downhill and uphill intervals to deal with. Hill training isn’t necessary, but it would help.
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Run Like the River
If you're a local, you're probably familiar with the Santa Ana River Trail. If you live out of the area, it's an asphalt paved recreational trail that follows the Santa … MORE
If you’re a local, you’re probably familiar with the Santa Ana River Trail. If you live out of the area, it’s an asphalt paved recreational trail that follows the Santa Ana River from the inland border of Orange County all the way to the ocean. That may bring visions of lots of greenery along a serene waterway. No such luck. Almost the whole river is a giant concrete-lined flood control channel. Most of the trail runs behind nice residential areas, past sports venues, small neighborhood parks, and a golf course. A few short segments are next to industrial parks with lots of graffiti and tall fences topped with razor wire.
Buses got us to the start area with plenty of time to warm up. Aid stations were approximately every two miles with dedicated volunteers who braved some challenging weather. Pre-race emails were timely and informative. Drop bags were supplied and were right next to the finish line for easy pick up. Swag was a mix of a basic poly/cotton shirt with simple graphics and a finisher’s medal of impressive size and design. The medal even had a section imitating beach sand – appropriate since you finish in a parking lot at the beach.
Since the trail crosses under every major street and highway, you have little downhill and uphill intervals to deal with. Hill training isn’t necessary, but it would help.