Disclaimer: I received free entry to the Irvine Half Marathon & 5K race as part of being a BibRave Pro. Learn more about becoming a BibRave Pro (ambassador), and check out BibRave.com to review find and write race reviews!
Unless you’re a Southern California native, you probably never heard of Irvine. But as someone who has driven from San Diego to LA (and back, usually on the same day), you will likely have driven through Irvine, which is situated right in the middle of Orange County. The only time I really stopped in Irvine was to wait in line at 85 Degree bakery, fortunately, they have since opened up multiple locations in San Diego. Orange County, in general, reminds me very much of San Diego. The weather is tolerable all year long, the only thing I dislike is the traffic that I almost always hit when driving through the OC.
The Irvine Half Marathon & 5K has been rebranded from the Southern California Half & 5K. As with many other races these days, they are sponsored by a brewing company and offer various beers and drinks at the post-race festival. The half marathon and 5K take place on January 11, which is a great time for those who have made New Year’s resolutions to run a race or lose weight. And while the weather is still a little chilly in the mornings, it is nothing compared to what everyone else is experiencing away from Southern California. Aside from the typical race swag (shirt, medal, finisher’s festival), there are some other unique perks that you don’t see at every race (free participant photos, free and live runner tracking). Learn more about the Irvine Half Marathon and 5K here.