Countdown to the Finish Half Marathon
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Countdown to the Finish - event details
The Countdown to the Finish takes place on December 28, 2025 at Claremont Beach, Long Beach, CA (5400 E. Ocean Blvd.). The event offers multiple race distances:
- 5K
- 10K
- 10 Miler
- Half Marathon
Parking in the beach lot is available for a fee; street parking is free. Participants in the Half and 10 Miler may use a parking payment app. Race bibs must be worn on the front of the shirt. Gear check is available at the registration tent; participants must bring their own bag. All finishers receive a medal. Overall first place medals are awarded to the top male and top female in each distance. Race photos are provided free and results and photos are emailed the day after the race.
Course, support and logistics
All courses are out-and-back on the beach path. The 5K route is used for the 5K and repeated for the 10K. The 5-mile route is used for the 10 Miler (two laps). The Half Marathon combines two laps of the 5-mile route and one lap of the 5K route. The beach path is an open course; runners are asked to keep to the right for pedestrians while cyclists use the left. A water station is located at Belmont Pier and the finish area has an aid station with water, electrolyte drink, gels, and fruit snacks. First aid kits are at each station and crew members have received CPR training. A spectator tent is set up west of the finish line; there is no shade or seating in the festival area. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
