Thousands expected for pre-game run
Nearly 8,000 runners are expected to compete in the 32nd annual Redondo Beach Super Bowl 10K event which includes a 5K race and a Baby Buggy 10K competition. A free Health and Fitness Expo will be held Saturday and Sunday at Seaside Lagoon. Photo
Southern California’s largest Super Bowl celebration will begin at 7 a.m. Sunday when the 32nd annual Redondo Beach Super Bowl 10K kicks off with the popular costume judging contest. More than 10,000 participants and supporters are expected to attend the event, giving ample time to recover before the New Orleans Saints and Indianapolis Colts square off in the NFL’s championship game in Miami at 3:30 p.m.
Starting and finishing at Harbor Drive and Portofino Way, the first of three races begins with the 5K Run/Walk at 7:30 a.m., followed by the Baby Buggy 10K at 8:15 a.m. and the 10K at 8:30 a.m. with custom awards given to the top three male and female finishers in each age category.
All participants receive a custom race shirt and two free beers are available in the Asahi Beer Garden for those over 21 years of age (while supplies last). Walk-up registration will be available at the Health Expo, held at Seaside Lagoon Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and on race day beginning at 6 a.m. Race entry fees are $30 per person or $150 for a Corporate Team (maximum six runners).
Free to the public, the Health Expo includes sports and lifestyle exhibits and offers fitness enthusiasts running and other training accessories.
Last year’s event drew more than 8,000 entrants, the most in several years. Redondo Beach Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Marna Smeltzer is hoping the rain predicted for the end of the week passes before Sunday’s late registration. “With more than a week before race day, registrations are tracking above last year, so we expect a good turnout,” Smeltzer said.
Los Angeles runner fared well in the 2009 races with Ruben Ramirez winning the 5K with a time of 15:29.6. Venice’s Natalie Whelan took top honor in the female division at 18:03.1.
Brian Livingston, of Los Angeles, captured the 10K with a mark of 30:46.6 and Tobe Berg, of Los Angeles, placed first in the female competition at 35:23.7.
For more information, visit redondo10K.com. ER