Amid a sea of red, white and blue, beach runners begin their Independence Day celebration by competing in the annual Village Runner 4th of July 5K.
Now in its 25th year, the UCLA Health-sponsored race begins and finishes in Redondo Beach’s Riviera Village, a well-known spot for Juan Paredes who will be seeking his third straight victory at this year’s event
“It’s exciting to win the race two years in a row,” the East Los Angeles resident said. “I love the community race atmosphere. It’s a cool course, which is why I came back and I’ll be back next year. The course is a little challenging on the way out but it’s downhill at the end making for fun finishes.”
Last year, Paredes crossed the finish line in 15 minutes flat and was later joined by his girlfriend Valerie Sanchez who posted the women’s winning time of 16:59. All participants receive a 4th of July Run T-shirt with age division awards and cash prizes given to the top three overall mala and female finishers.
The event also feature the Firecracker Dash for kids who each receive finisher medals.
$35 for the 5K and $25 for the Firecracker Dash by June 5 (add $5 thereafter).
Registration at Village Runner stores. (310) 376-7900. Or at Villagerunner.com
Roundhouse Fun Run for the Oceans
May 12
Manhattan Beach
Benefitting the Roundhouse Aquarium, the 6th Annual Run for the Oceans 5K run/walk begins on the north side of the pier. The $35 entry fee includes electronic timing, commemorative T-shirt, participation medal and refreshments. The 1st through 3rd place finisher in each division receive a medal. There will also be a raffle after the race for more fun and prizes.
Register at Roundhouseaquarium.org
Armed Forces Day 5K
Saturday, May 19
Torrance
Village Runner hosts the 3rd annual Armed Forces Day 5K for Freedom race at 8 a.m. The course begins and ends on Madrona Avenue in front of the Del Amo Mall. All finishers receive a 5K for Freedom T-shirt. There will be chip timing and sponsor refreshments. $40.
Register at Villagerunner.com.
Conquer Our Runs
St., June 9, Manhattan Beach
Sat., July 7, Hermosa Beach
The Conquer Our Run’s Father’s Best and It’s Hot ConQuest races begin at 7 a.m. and benefit Lupus LA, Breast Cancer Charities and other charities. $29 (5K) and $32 (10K).
Active.com or visit ConquerourRun.org and click SoCal.
Champions for Children 5K
Saturday, June 23
Ernie Howlett Park
25851 Hawthorne Blvd., RH Estates
The Fifth Annual Champions for Children 5k Trail Run/Walk, sponsored by South Bay Children’s Health Center, will raise money for quality mental and oral health services for underserved children, teens and young adults. Participants can join either the 5K Trail Run, beginning at 8 a.m. or the 5K Trail Walk, beginning at 9:15 a.m. The event includes vendor booths, and a Kids Fun Run. Fees are $35 for adults, $25 children 8-12 and children 7 and under participating in the Kids Fun Run are $15.00.
Register at Sbchc.com.
