Tour Del Toro Run/Ride

A great event with something for everyone. This year I wasn’t in the best shape, so I opted for the 5k walk/​run. A nice course around the sports park, finishing with a fun expo that included a bicycle safety rodeo for the kids, and an indi race car (which my son thought was pretty cool!).
The year prior I did the 25 mile bike ride, which was a nice, challenging ride. From what I was told the 50 mile course was fun this year, and the more difficult 50 mile course was exceptional for those advanced riders looking for a real test of fitness and stamina.
I wish I could have done the 10k this year, heard the trail into the hills was a welcomed change-​up from most courses in the OC area, which are typically dominated by concrete and pavement.
I will say it’s definitely a newer event, so the only downside is that they are building up participant numbers. If you are looking for an event with huge crowds, this isn’t for you. But if you’re looking for a day outside for the whole family and all fitness levels, then Tour del Toro is an event I would definitely come out for.
And I’m always down to support the Boys and Girls Club.

El Toro makes for a beautiful run!
Tour Del Toro, organized by the Boys & Girls Club Program in Lake Forest, welcomes cyclists, runners, and walkers alike to participate in either a 25-​mile/​50-​mile ride or a 5k/​10k Run, each race just as colorfully scenic as the others. Touring through the heart of South Orange County, each course winds not only through the neighboring hills and canyons, but in and around the Lake Forest Sports Park & Recreation Center as well. Including 57 acres devoted for active use and 30 acres for passive use and open space, the Sports Park, standing as the Tour’s start and finish. really is amazing – heavily populated and fully appreciated by its residents.
I’d won a free 5K run from Road Runner Sports’ Adventure Run, and although I really enjoyed the 5K, I would definitely opt for an extra 3 miles and run the 10K next year instead. The 10K’s course, which at first ran through the Sports Park, also headed toward the hills, just a bit north. On such a beautifully sunny day as this, extending my run into the green would have made for an even better trek.
But, again, this run entirely supports the Boys & Girls Club in Lake Forest; I’m always on board for something like that. It’s always fun to step outside and get some exercise, and when doing so helps kids, applause is in order. Great job, Tour Del Toro! See you next year!