Catalina Marathon / 10K / 5K

Foothill Flyers Race Reviews
Last update March 17, 2006

3rd Saturday in March, Catalina Island, CA, 7 AM Start.

Avalon Weather, Metropole web cam, Catalina Island Inn web cam, Pavillion Lodge & Casino web cams

For app and info: call 714-978-1528, email: CarMar@PacificSportsLLC.com or click on Catalina above for info or to register on line.

Although this marathon is rated as the 2nd toughest in So. California (Saddleback is first), it is recommended often as a great first marathon by mid to back of the packers who return year after year. The reason? The predominately dirt jeep road course is much easier on your legs than a flat street marathon, and you walk the up hills and jog the down hills. Sure, Catalina will take you about an hour longer than a flat street marathon like LA or Long Beach, but save going for a Personal Record later on after you have the experience and are comfortable with your individual training and how you attack the big 26.2. Besides, it is more fun to tell people you did the 2nd toughest as your first and you can't beat the island scenery - it's where the buffalo roam.

See the course maps for the marathon, 10K and 5K.

Marathon course marshalls (foto on right) - you don't want to mess with them!

Renting one of the Bahia Vista Condo's with 1 or 2 other couples is a good deal and can be cheaper than a hotel room. A 6 person condo is about $188 total per couple for the two nights. There is a Jacuzzi. Check out Vacation Rentals . Telephone 310-510-2276.

Fastest boat ride - 1 hr - is from the Catalina Express terminal in Long Beach - 800-805-9201. Best to take Friday off if you can and get one of the morning boats so you have some time to relax and enjoy the islands ambiance. Return on a mid Sunday afternoon boat - more fun to coordinate your boat rez with other club members and ride together.

submitted by Tom O'Hara

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