The Irvine Half Marathon takes place this Saturday on January 11, welcoming local and visiting runners to participate in the annual event. 

The Irvine Half Marathon is made up of two races, a half marathon and a 5K. 

Both races begin in Woodbridge Village at Barranca, with the half marathon starting at 8:00 a.m. and the 5K at 8:15 a.m. 

A comprehensive map of both the half course and the 5K can be found on the Irvine Half Marathon’s official website. 

Due to road closures, local traffic will be briefly diverted to make way for runners. In order to ensure that the roads reopen on schedule, course time limits will be strictly enforced with no exceptions. 

Participants are expected to finish either course in under three hours, maintaining a minimum pace of 14 minutes per mile. Those who are unable to meet this pace and do not reach the cut-off location within the time limit will be stopped and shuttled to the finish area to enjoy post-race festivities. Numerous medical stations will be set up along the course, as well as in the start and finish areas to assist anyone in need. 

(Courtesy of Irvine Half Marathon Facebook Page)

Located at Mike Ward Park, the finish line has been designated as a “runner-only” zone for participants to grab goodie bags, rehydrate and receive their awards. In order to maintain security, participants will not be allowed back in the zone once they have exited. 

While the Runner Zone is secure, the Finish Line Festival is open to the public. The community is invited to join the celebration to cheer on runners and enjoy a local collection of live music, food, and the offerings of Docent Brewing and Stella Rosa. 

The marathon boast over 30 partners — from breweries to local small businesses. Race Director Ryan Dawkins is enthusiastic about this year’s turnout, stating “we’re excited to bring a world-class running event to Irvine for the 29th year.” 

This year, organizers focused on keeping the event “hyper-local,” to not only give an identity to their host but to drive impactful funds into the Orange County small business community. “We employ local staff and rent equipment from local business,” adds Dawkins. 

(Courtesy of Irvine Half Marathon Facebook Page)

Contributing to the local element will be Irvine’s own Mayor Pro Tem Anthony Kuo, who will be acting as the official race starter. 

This year’s 2020 run marks the 29th year that the event has benefited the Woodbridge High School Athletic Boosters program. 

Previously known as the Southern California Half Marathon & 5k, it was rebranded last year to give Irvine ownership of the running event it has been hosting for decades. Organizers partnered with Mascot Sports, a considerable West Coast endurance marketing firm, to spearhead the rebrand and assist in furthering community engagement. 

Those interested in participating or viewing the event can find more information on the Irvine Half Marathon’s official website. 

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