Carlsbad Marathon is almost here, and whether it’s your first race or your 100th, here’s what you need to know to ensure you have a great race.
1. Bib Number and Swag Pickup
Pick up your bib, race shirt, and 1/4 zip pullover, along with other race goodies at the Holiday Inn Carlsbad – San Diego (2725 Palomar Airport Road) on January 12 (12 – 4 PM) or January 13 (10 AM – 4 PM). Make sure to bring your ID for verification. Can’t make it? A friend or family member can pick up your gear with a copy or picture of your ID. You can also opt for Race Day Pickup for an additional $20.
2. Book Your Accommodations
A good night’s sleep is vital for a great race. Confirm your accommodations, or book with one of our excellent host hotels. Many hotels have sold out, so book soon!
3. Race Day Arrival
Plan your arrival at The Shoppes at Carlsbad (2525 El Camino Real). Consider carpooling, and if using Lyft/Uber, head to the designated drop-off on Monroe Street. Note the start times: Marathon at 6:15 AM, 5K at 6:45 AM, and Half Marathon at 7:45 AM.
4. Gear Check
Mobile Locker will be stationed in the Finish Line Festival, where it can be accessed before or after your event. Pre-purchase your locker here before they sell out.
Small: 6″x6″x9″ – suitable for a small layer, keys, wallet, and other small items – $10
Medium: 11″x6″x18″ – best for small to medium bags – $15
Large: 12″x12″x18″ – best for larger bags and backpacks – $20
5. Half Marathon Wave Start
Check the wave number on your half marathon bib to make sure you line up in the correct location. The first wave will start at 7:45 AM, with subsequent waves starting every two to three minutes. To learn more about the wave start, click here.
6. Last-Minute Registration Changes
Need to switch events, go virtual, or update your gender identity for the non-binary category? Visit our event transfer instructions here. Switches can be done online through Wednesday, January 10. After that date, they will need to be done at the Solutions table at the Expo/Packet Pickup or on event day.
7. Finish Line Festival Highlights
– Finisher Food Bag: Refuel with delicious snacks and drinks from Jimbo’s, Jambar, Partner’s Crackers, 4C Foods, and Hollandia Dairy.
– Ballast Point Beer Garden: Enjoy an award-winning craft beer in our 21+ beer garden. You deserve it!
– Photo Opportunities: Commemorate your finish at the step and repeat photo backdrops! There will be backdrops for each event and for those working towards the SoCal Triple Crown.
8. Tribute to Carlsbad Marathon Founder, Lynn Flanagan
At this year’s Carlsbad Marathon, we invite you to join us in celebrating the legacy of our founder, Lynn Flanagan, who passed away in October of 2023. We invite race participants to share their running and racing “why” at a special tribute station at the Expo/Packet Pickup Event on Friday and Saturday. Lynn’s friends and family will also be making a commemorative crossing of the finish line on event day.
Remember, your journey to the finish line is not just a race; it’s a celebration of your hard work, dedication, and the vibrant community spirit that Lynn Flanagan fostered. We can’t wait to see you there!