LA Marathon 2025 Race Report – Why I’ll Always Run the LA Marathon

Lea Reyes(MM13731,DA2891,HF16015) – 132 marathon. #15 consecutive LA. #3 consecutive 5k. Let’s talk about it.

5k on Saturday. Almost missed it. Planned on getting up at 4:30 but was so tired from travel, woke up 10 to six. Quickly left the house, arrived at 7:25, parked and ran to get my bib. Whew!
I always get a room near the marathon finish for parking so I don’t have to get up at 3:00. The Hotel is 20 minutes away. I choose a little distance to save on costs otherwise you’re paying $100 more to get a little closer. I’m very familiar with the parking at Century Parkway and what runners need to know is that there are always two lanes for the parking garage. I saved 30-45 minutes passing cars in a single line waiting. Took me 10 minutes to park and walk to the shuttle. 1.3 miles was the line for shuttle but it moved very quickly. 25 minutes of waiting, not too bad. Volunteers were hustling getting everyone on buses. Our shuttle driver was badass! Passing cars and buses. Saved us at least 20-30 minutes waiting to enter the stadium.
Ran to hospitality and got ready. Had 15 minutes before the start which means I add a total of 25 before my corral crossed the start. I will always pay for hospitality. In and out, no crowds, cleaner porta potties, food, mats to stretch, everything you need.
Starting is always a little slow. You need time to get past the slower runners and that takes a bit. The views of thousands of runners as you go up and down hills is so beautiful. You have to be there to understand.
Knowing it was going to be hot and SoCal River kicked my butt, I chose the run/walk method and finished 42 minutes faster in 80’ weather. We were cooking out there. Ran in the shade every chance I got. Wasn’t as fatigue as previous. Four UCans, package of shot blocks, caffeinated jelly beans, 1.5 pack of salt sticks, four tangerines, energy waffle, 1.5 liters of electrolytes, and three ice pops the last four miles. And, I always run with a rag and plastic bag to fill with ice. Keeps me cool.
LA is eventful. Lots of spectators, food, volunteers, music, support. Everyone volunteers even if they are not there for you. Just wish they would give us a little more room to get through. Some areas are to crowded and you end up running up against others or stepping on their feet.
Mile 18…saw no one take a left. 🤣Everyone was talking crap, laughing, and we all kept going. That’s how you do it. Push through, run, jog, walk, or crawl.
I really had a great time this year. Saw so many friends on course and finally got to see Gysel Parajon on the back end running her 100th marathon. Kudos to her.
Was so tired when I got home. Enjoyed a mani, pedi, food, packed for my work trip, and was in bed at 8.
Woke up refreshed, exercised, and felt great. Recovery is so important to avoid soreness.
I will always run LA. It’s crazy big, a challenge, and worth it.
Shout out to all my friends who finished. Badass!!!
Next up. Two half marathons with ABWR.
Happy running!