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Mountains 2 Beach has long been one of California's premier Boston Qualifying races. Renowned for its exceptional production and dedication to helping runners qualify for Boston, it draws runners back year after year to its events.
This course is simply stunning: rolling hills providing a net downhill experience and stunning ocean views of Ventura are combined with an idyllic finish area and festival to make this race experience memorable.
Course Description
Mountains 2 Beach Marathon and Half Marathon is truly unparalleled, starting in Ojai and finishing on Ventura's stunning beaches. Runners enjoy rolling hills and net downhill (but not enough to strain quads) while taking in California weather and scenery at their leisure – no doubt making this challenging yet rewarding course a popular annual returnee choice.
The full marathon begins with an enjoyable 6.75 mile loop through East Ojai for great spectator viewing, before continuing out Santa Anna onto Santa Ynez Canyon roads to Meiners Oaks at mile 7.5. From there the course turns west onto Ventura River Bike Path before entering civilization once more at Ventura Avenue before turning onto our final stretch of paved bike path before finishing in Downtown Ventura.
Pre-Race Info
Mountain peaks, lush green hillsides and valleys, and ocean waves will greet runners on this picturesque point-to-point course between Oak View and Ventura. The full marathon begins in Ojai's mountains while half marathoners begin halfway through and end near Ventura beach; both events serve as USATF certified Boston Marathon Qualifier races.
The full 26.2 mile race begins in Oak View, California just above 700 feet and gradually descends toward sea level over 22 miles, ending near Ventura's historic Pier. A 13.1 mile point-to-point half marathon race commences half way into this marathon and also runs downhill towards its completion near Ventura Pier.
CHECK OUT OUR RUNNING COURSESPacket Pickup
If you registered before October 20th, your packet can be picked up between 12:00PM to 6:00PM on Friday at Big 5 Sporting Goods located at 2720 San Mateo Boulevard in Albuquerque. Alternatively, pick it up on Saturday between 9:00AM to 6:00PM from the Health & Fitness Expo.
Packet Pickup area and the start line are approximately one-half mile apart; we suggest collecting your packet on Friday for an enhanced race day experience.
On Friday, you may designate someone else to collect your race packet on your behalf if needed; they must bring both your registration confirmation email with barcode and photo ID as proof of identity.
Race Day
Mountains to Beach Marathon offers an outstanding course, weaving through Ojai mountain valley and onto Ventura California beaches for an amazing finish near its historic Ventura Pier – qualifying as a Boston qualifier! Meanwhile, its Half Marathon offering fast point to point racing from Oak View at half marathon point downhill and finally finishing near Ocean!
Crowds may not be plentiful, but runners appear satisfied with this low-key race and all it has to offer. Passing through beautiful, yet rural locations makes running here truly special for runners of all backgrounds.
As for the weather, late May can be unpredictable in California; so runners should come prepared. For those driving themselves there is ample parking nearby and shuttle buses from different locations; adults will require photo ID to collect their packet; while children 17 or under do not require showing an ID if accompanied by an adult.
Awards
At a special awards ceremony immediately following the race, the top 3 overall and top 3 in each age group will be recognized during a special awards ceremony. Winners must be present to claim their awards; age divisions are determined based on gun and/or chip time. In addition to receiving high-quality digital race photos (optional purchase), a beautiful custom finisher medal, cotton T-shirts (must be ordered through pre-registration), water, sports drinks and bagels as well as post-race party amenities!
USATF sanctioned courses will recognize Boston qualifying times. I hope this mountain to beach marathon race review has been helpful to you.
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