Warm Weather Advisory

2024 Santa Monica Classic

Santa Monica Classic Logo Stacked On White

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Santa Monica Classic
07 September 2025 - Los Angeles, CA
Los Angeles, CA, CA 92001 United States
29241796
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Warm Weather Expected

Thursday, September 5, 2pm Update

We are expecting unusually warm weather in Los Angeles County and Santa Monica this weekend, September 6 - 8, 2024. Participant, volunteer, and staff safety remains our top priority.

At this time, the race will proceed as planned, but we will continue to monitor the weather closely.  You can expect updates, even if there are no changes, here on our website, via email to all participants, and on social media @McCourtFoundation, by the following times: 

  • Friday, 9/6 by 7pm PT 
  • Saturday, 9/7 by 8pm PT 
  • Race morning on Sunday, 9/8 by 4:30am PT 

 

Friday, September 6, 7pm Update

Participant, volunteer, and staff safety remains our top priority. Due to the unusually warm weather forecast, the heat advisory in place for Los Angeles County and Santa Monica, and in consultation with city officials, we have made the following decisions to reduce the impact of heat on participants:

  • Shortening the 10K to a 5K
  • Offering an earlier start time of 7:00 AM on Sunday, September 8
  • All 5K participants must start by 8:30 AM
  • Moving the Kids Run start time to 9:00am

All participants, regardless of their originally registered distance, may start at 7:00 AM. There will be a second start at 7:30 AM and the start line will remain open until 8:30 AM (closing 30 minutes earlier than planned).

10K PARTICIPANTS

We understand this change may be disappointing. For those who have trained for the 10K, are acclimated to the heat, and can maintain an easy pace of 15 minutes per mile or faster, there will be an option to run two loops of the 5K course to complete an unofficial 10K distance. To participate in this option, you must pick up your bib on Saturday, September 7 and start with the 7:00 AM group. Please check our FAQ below for more details on this option.

BIB PICK-UP

We strongly encourage all participants to pick up their bib and t-shirt on Saturday, September 7, at the 3rd Street Promenade between 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM. While bib pick-up will be available on Sunday morning starting at 5:30 AM, the earlier start time and increased arrivals will result in heavier traffic and longer lines. Those aiming to start at 7:00 AM are especially encouraged to pick up their bibs on Saturday for the best chance of starting earlier (we cannot guarantee a 7:00 AM start time for those picking up on race morning). As a reminder, there is no gear check at the Santa Monica Classic.

ADDITIONAL SUPPORT

To further support participants on this warm day, we will provide:

  • Misting station on course
  • Iced towels at the finish line
  • 4 water stations on the course
  • Ample water and Electrolit at the Finish Line

No action is required to confirm your start time or distance. Your time will be recorded from the moment you cross the start line until you cross the finish line.

We ask everyone to recalibrate their race due to the warm weather conditions, slow down, and enjoy a Sunday morning run along the coast. This will not be a day to achieve PRs. Scroll down for additional tips for the warm weather.

Please check our FAQ below for more detailed and additional information. For questions not answered below, find us on social @mccourtfoundation.

You can expect hear from us again tomorrow, Saturday, September 7 by 8:00 PM and Sunday September 8 by 4:30 AM. We do not expect any additional changes, but we will continue to communicate with you either way.

Thank you for your participation and patience. Your safety is our top priority—stay informed, stay cool, and let’s make this an enjoyable event for everyone!

 

Warm Weather Running Tips

Be prepared to participate in the warm weather this Sunday by following these tips:

Hydrate Properly

  • Before the race: Start hydrating well in advance. Drink plenty of water the day before the race, and include electrolyte-rich drinks to maintain your body’s balance.
  • During the race: Drink when you're thirsty, and take advantage of water stations. Don’t wait until you’re dehydrated to drink.
  • After the race: Continue to rehydrate and replenish lost electrolytes.

Dress for the Heat

  • Lightweight, moisture-wicking clothing: Wear breathable fabrics that help wick sweat away from your body.
  • Light colors: Light-colored clothes will reflect the sun’s rays and keep you cooler than dark-colored ones.
  • Hat with a brim: Protect your face from direct sunlight and keep your head cool.

Use Sun Protection

  • Sunscreen: Apply water-resistant sunscreen with at least SPF 30 to all exposed skin to prevent sunburn.
  • Sunglasses: Protect your eyes from UV rays and improve visibility on sunny days.

Pace Yourself

  • Adjust your pace: Don’t push for a personal best. Slow down and listen to your body. Running in heat puts extra strain on your body, so be mindful of your limits.
  • Walk if necessary: Take walking breaks when needed to lower your heart rate and avoid overheating.

Listen to Your Body

  • Watch for warning signs: If you start feeling dizzy, nauseous, faint, or disoriented, slow down or stop immediately. Seek medical assistance if needed.

Stay Cool Before the Race

  • Pre-race cooling: Stay in the shade before starting, or use a wet cloth to keep your body temperature down.

FAQ's

Why are you making changes?

Los Angeles County and Santa Monica are under an extreme heat advisory through Monday, September 9 (as of 9/6). The safety of our participants, volunteers, and staff is our top priority.