Run for the hills

It’s considered one of the top 5K races in California, renowned for its scenic views, ocean breeze and the much-feared Carnation Avenue hill. Every runner remembers that hill.

“It’s a really nice route, but it’s tough because of the hills,” longtime runner Tommy Martin said of this weekend’s Corona del Mar Scenic 5K. “It’s definitely not one of those races where anyone tries to break their personal record.”

The 64-year-old will be one of about 3,000 racers participating in this year’s run, which stretches along Ocean Boulevard and makes its way along Seaview and First avenues.

This year marks the 25th anniversary of the race, an event Martin said he hasn’t missed since its inception. He first started in 1982 as a way to get in shape after years working on cruise-liners. Initially he took up tennis, Martin said, but he learned he enjoyed running after placing well in the Corona del Mar event.

“The first time I did it, I came in 125 out of 1,500 runners,” he said. “That’s when I knew I had some potential.”

Martin said the race is recognized by runners as one of the top 5K runs in the state. Runners from Japan, Europe and more than a dozen states have booked spots on this year’s run, which is a joint effort between the city of Newport Beach and the Corona del Mar Chamber of Commerce, and with sponsorship from Prudential California Realty.

“We get people from everywhere,” organizer Jim Skahan said. “It’s pretty well known in the running community as a top-notch event. We have a wonderful scenic course that goes past the ocean, through the community of Corona del Mar and then back toward the ocean.”

The event has also become a community gathering of sorts for Corona del Mar residents who watch the event from their front patios and porches. Many families hold race breakfasts or brunches, munching on early morning treats and cheering on the runners as they pass. About 125 volunteers are needed each year, Skahan said.

“It’s a tradition the whole community comes out for,” Linda Leonhard of the Corona del Mar chamber said. “The whole town knows about it, and it’s a big celebration for the area.”

Besides the grueling course, racers also have a large concession of treats to look forward to, including meals from restaurants such as Islands, Gina’s Pizza and Jamba Juice, which are creating a mini “Restaurant Row” to feed the hungry runners. Leonhard said local vendors and health industry businesses will have their own expo to entertain and sell products. A steel drum band will provide the music for the day.

Everyone is welcome to attend, but Leonhard suggested arriving early to find parking. And don’t expect to leave early. The streets will be closed until noon for the race and expo.

IF YOU GO