This weekend’s Long Beach Marathon is making adjustments to keep runners safe.
With temperatures expected to hit 90 degrees on Sunday, race organizers today announced earlier start times.
The marathon will now begin at 5:30 AM, and the half marathon at 6:30 AM, giving runners a cooler start to beat the heat.
WHAT:
Due to an expected heat wave forecasted for this weekend, the Long Beach Marathon and Half Marathon today announced changes to ensure the safety of participants, volunteers and staff.
In collaboration with the City of Long Beach, the Police Department, Fire Department, Medical team and other government agencies, event organizers have made the decision to shift the race’s start times 30 minutes earlier to prioritize participant safety.
WHEN:
Sunday, October 6, 2024
Wheelchair (Marathon and Half Marathon) will start at 5:25 AM
Marathon will begin at 5:30 AM
Bike Tour will start at 5:30 AM
Half Marathon will begin at 6:30 AM
No changes to the start of Saturday’s Aquarium of the Pacific 5K are currently being implemented.
MORE:
WARM WEATHER RUNNING TIPS
Safety is our top priority, and we will continue to monitor the weather closely. Start preparing yourself for the heat now!
BE ALERT: Running in unusually warm fall weather can be challenging if proper precautions aren’t taken. Take this week to prepare accordingly.
STAY HYDRATED: Hydration starts today! Keep in mind the unusually warm temperatures and increase your water intake to prepare.
DRESS APPROPRIATELY: Sweat-wicking fabrics give your body the best chance to regulate temperature and help prevent overheating. Lightweight, light-colored clothing, hats, and sunscreen are strongly recommended.
TRACK YOUR HEAT ACCLIMATION: If you have a smartwatch, such as a Garmin or Apple Watch, monitor your stats. Make sure you’re staying within your target range and not overworking your body. Just as you’d track your splits, pay attention to your heart rate and body temperature.
ADJUST YOUR EXPECTATIONS: Understand that your original goal may need to be reassessed. Slowdown in the heat and listen to your body. The heat will make your run more challenging, and it’s okay to slow down or take breaks when needed.
BE AWARE: If you experience dizziness, nausea, chills, or stop sweating, stop running, hydrate, find shade, and wait for your symptoms to improve. Seek help if necessary.
ABOUT:
The 40th running of the Long Beach Marathon and Half Marathon will take place this weekend of October 4-6, 2024.
The event will welcome over 22,000 runners for two days of races, including the marathon, half-marathon, 20-mile Bike Tour, and the Aquarium of the Pacific 5k
For more information and a complete weekend schedule, visit RunLongBeach.com.
