Bumble Bee Foods 5K Run/Walk

This is an incredibly frustrating race because I love the idea, but the execution is poor. It’s part of the Holiday Bowl, which means that there is a big crowd with lots of energy and a parade to follow. The waterfront course is flat, the view is fabulous, and the cool breezes are very refreshing. The late start means you can sleep in, but December weather keeps it being from being too hot.
So what’s the problem? There is a wide range of people who run this race, including some people who were just standing around by the harbor and decided to sign up an hour before. I love the idea of making a race a family event, and think it’s great the people who don’t normally run decide to give it a try. However, new people aren’t familiar with race etiquette and there are no corrals or rules for where people stand. The result is tiny children, walkers, and parents with huge strollers lined up in front of people who want to race. I was hoping things would improve when they added chip timing a few years back (no need for everyone to crowd near the front), but no such luck; I still spent the first couple of minutes trying to weave around the strollers and kids.
This would be a great race for kids or as a first 5k (there’s even a water station in the middle of the course), but I wouldn’t suggest it if you’re serious about racing.
Oh, and take the trolley! With the parade and the football fans, you don’t want to try parking.