This exceptional Half-Marathon starts at 6:30 a.m. at Newport Center Drive, adjacent to Fashion Island and follows the Marathon course down Pacific Coast Highway. It winds through the seaside village of Corona del Mar including the spectacular Ocean Blvd. with breathtaking views overlooking Big Corona del Mar State Beach and the Pacific Ocean. It traverses down Bayside Drive, past the Newport Harbor Yacht Clubs and homes and boats of Newport Harbor. The course heads through the Newport Dunes resort and around the tranquil Newport Back Bay, finally splitting with the marathoners at mile 12. Entering the OC Fair and Event Center, runners can hear the sounds of the crowd and the Finish Line Festival a short distance ahead. What a great place to have friends and family cheer you on at the finish!
The Half Marathon course is net downhill in elevation from start to finish. From the start to mile 5 is all downhill. From mile 5 to 9.5, it is flat. At mile 9.5 there is a hill 150 ft. long and 45' in height and at mile 11.5 there is a 1/4 of a mile long incline also 45' in height. These are the only two inclines on the Half Marathon course.
Water Stations: Exact locations and detailed 2011 map will be posted here when confirmed.
Energy Drink: The type, location and a detailed 2011 map of the electrolyte replenishment drink available will be posted here when confirmed. Locations will be clearly identified both on the maps and on the course as "water only" or "water and electrolyte".
Medical Aid Stations: The total number and their locations will be posted here when confirmed.
KOOL 'N FIT Spray Station: We had such great reviews, we hope to have them return for year 3. We'll keep you posted!
Start Line: (When available, all 2011 maps and other details can be found on our Parking/Directions Page)
The Start Line for the Half Marathon is located on Newport Center Drive at Farallon Drive adjacent to Fashion Island in Newport Beach. The start time for the Half Marathon is 6:30 a.m.
Finish Line: (When available, all 2011 maps and other details can be found on our Parking/Directions Page)
The Half Marathon will Finish at the OC Fair and Event Center. After crossing the Finish Line, participants will enter the secure runners' area and receive their medal. As finishers continue through the secure area they will come to the Post Food & Fluid (PF&F) area. The PF&F will be stocked with bagels, water, fruit and other items. Once runners exit this area, they will not be allowed to return.
The course time limit is 3.5 hours for the Half Marathon. Please note that the course will have a rolling re-opening that will be strictly enforced by the Newport Beach and Costa Mesa Police Departments. Roads must reopen based on a 16 minute per mile pace. Any participants arriving at an intersection after the 16 minute pace may be required to use the pedestrian pathways and observe all pedestrian laws. After reopening, course markings, police services, portable restrooms, water stations may be removed from the course.
There is no specific Family Reunion Area, however, there is a large grass Festival Field area just to the south of Building 12. We recommended that participants discuss a reunion plan with family and friends prior to the race. A detailed Finish Line Map will be posted here when available to scout possible meeting locations.
Additional viewing areas for spectators will be posted here when available.