VENICE, Calif. - TelAve -- The streets of Venice came alive May 18 as over 3,500 runners, walkers, and spectators took part in the Inaugural Venice Beach Half Marathon & 5K—a brand-new fitness event that delivered a dynamic mix of local flavor, cultural landmarks, and community pride.

The event raised over $10,000 to support Venice and Mar Vista school booster clubs, with a broader goal of reaching $25,000 through continued fundraising efforts. Schools with the most student participants were honored with special prizes.

Participants of all ages laced up for an unforgettable course that highlighted Venice's most iconic sites: Muscle Beach, the Venice Canals, Venice Blvd, Abbot Kinney, and the old Venice Jail House, finishing under the legendary Venice Sign.

But the event was about more than miles. Runners were treated to photo ops and live entertainment along the route, including a Grease-themed performance at Venice High School (aka Rydell High) and a post-race celebration at Windward Circle. Participants enjoyed a VIP Beer Garden at Belle's Beach House, live music, and exclusive discounts from Abbot Kinney retailers.

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"We set out to create something that captured the magic and grit of Venice while giving back to the community," said Michelle Lindner, Generic Events Marketing Director and 20-year Venice resident. "Public schools are the heart of any community, and we're proud to launch an event that celebrates our neighborhood while supporting its future."

Race Results:
Half Marathon Winners:
1st Place- Jane Miller – Phoenix, AZ | Time: 1:14:31 | Pace: 5:41
2nd Place- Casey Morrison – Los Angeles, CA | Time: 1:15:50 | Pace: 5:47
3rd Place- Hayato Usui – Hermosa Beach, CA | Time: 1:16:00 | Pace: 5:48
5K Winners:
1st Place - Colin McGrath – Los Angeles, CA | Time: 17:33 | Pace: 5:39
2nd Place- Noah Flores – Fillmore, CA | Time: 18:26 | Pace: 5:56
3rd Place- Tash Jarrett – Norwood, South Australia | Time: 18:49 | Pace: 6:03
Half Marathon Wheelchair Division Winners:

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1st Place- Rob Balucas – West Hills, CA | Time: 1:05:27 | Pace: 5:00
2nd Place- Alexis Romero – South Gate, CA | Time: 1:16:14 | Pace: 5:49
3rd Place- Glenn Hartrick – Los Angeles, CA | Time: 1:21:45 | Pace: 6:14

Generic Events:
The Venice Beach Half Marathon & 5K is produced by Generic Events (about:blank), founded and operated by longtime Venetians and husband-wife duo Brennan and Michelle Lindner. This new addition joins an impressive roster of events from Generic Events, including Turkey Trot Los Angeles, Santa Monica Pier 360 Beach Festival, the award-winning Los Muertos 5K/10K (named a USA Today "10 Best" race), and the Pasadena Triathlon.