Thousands of runners from around the world enjoyed sunny skies and beautiful scenery in Santa Monica Sunday morning, competing in the 20th edition of the Santa Monica Classic.
The event featured 10K, 5K and kids’ runs, with a refreshed course and nearly 7,500 people taking part, according to organizers.
Andre-Diangelo Galdamez of Rancho Cucamonga won the men’s 10K in 34:26, 31 seconds ahead of Emiliano Rodriguez.
“This is my first city race win,” Galdamez said. “Honestly, this is a surreal experience. This is a city I love. I always said I want to win a city race.”
Mexico’s Arely Reyes claimed her first major 10K victory, winning the women’s race in 38:00 — 40 seconds ahead of Portland’s Emily Van Orman.
Reyes originally traveled to Southern California to visit Universal Studios but decided to stay and race.
“There was a lot of good motivation. A lot of good people and a lot of good weather. I want to keep running, and I’m going to come back next year,” she said.
“The course is fun and fast. And nothing beats running by the beach,” added Van Orman. “There are palm trees everywhere. We’re running by the ocean. What’s not to love?”
Marquis Bowden of Long Beach won the men’s 5K in 16:02. The women’s 5K was won by Newbury Park’s Maggie Shearer in 18:13. Running close to home, Ingrid Walters of Santa Monica finished third.