SUMMARY: Iconic Stadium to the Sea course begins at Dodger Stadium and finishes in Santa Monica, running past every major landmark in Los Angeles.

The Los Angeles Marathon is an event that showcases the vibrancy and diversity of the city, drawing runners from all over the world. The race starts at the iconic Dodger Stadium and weaves through the heart of Los Angeles, passing numerous landmarks and neighborhoods, each offering its unique charm and energy. This marathon, whether it's a runner's first or their fiftieth, provides a memorable experience filled with challenges, achievements, and the support of enthusiastic spectators.

Participants gather early in the morning, ready to take on the course. The initial descent from Dodger Stadium can be tough on the legs, but the excitement of starting such a prestigious race keeps spirits high. As runners make their way through the city, they encounter rolling hills and vibrant communities, all the way to the finish line by the Santa Monica coast. The route is filled with entertainment, including live music and cheering sections, which provide much-needed motivation.

The marathon is known for its excellent organization, with plenty of aid stations offering water, snacks, and even ice towels to keep runners cool. Volunteers and spectators are stationed throughout the course, handing out refreshments and cheering on the participants. The festive atmosphere is infectious, making even the toughest stretches enjoyable.

Upon reaching the finish line, runners are greeted with applause and an array of post-race amenities. Medals, food, and space blankets are provided to help runners recover and celebrate their accomplishment. The finish area, set against the backdrop of the Pacific Ocean, offers a beautiful and relaxing environment for participants to unwind.

The Los Angeles Marathon is a well-organized event that captures the essence of the city. From the bustling expo to the energetic crowd support, every aspect of the race is designed to create a positive and unforgettable experience. The combination of a challenging yet rewarding course, outstanding organization, and the vibrant spirit of Los Angeles makes this marathon a standout event for runners of all levels.

Throughout marathon history the story lines have 
been the same, the men's race and the women's race, and never shall they 
meet. Now, for the first time at the marathon distance, the 2004 Los 
Angeles Marathon will match the elite women against the elite men in a 
unique handicap format that will award the first person across the finish 
line a bonus of $50,000.

Under "The Challenge," the elite women begin first, approximately 20 
minutes ahead of the men and say "catch us if you can". Once the time 
differential has passed, the elite men take off with the rest of the L.A. 
Marathon field and try to beat "The Challenge" posed by the elite women. 
The first person to break the finish tape will earn a $50,000 bonus over 
and above the traditional first place prizes of $25,000 and a Honda Accord 
EX V6 (valued at $24,300).


WHO WILL WIN "THE CHALLENGE?" - L.A. Marathon Issues Challenge to Elite Athletes

City of Los Angeles Marathon (L.A. Marathon)

Pre-Race Review/ Lineup

Excitement fills the air and the streets when 25,000 runners pound the pavement at the XIX Los Angeles Marathon on Sunday, March 7, 2004.

Los Angeles Gears Up For Marathon XIX

The 2004 L.A. Marathon will 
start the elite women approximately 20 minutes prior to the elite men and 
remainder of the field. The first 
person to break the tape will earn an additional $50,000, on top of his or 
her $25,000 and a 2004 Honda Accord.

L.A. Marathon issues "The Challenge"

Human Interest Story

City Councilman Tom LaBonge has propsed that the Los Angeles Marathon should be expanded beyond the city basin and should start in the San Fernando Valley.

Marathon Summary

Marathon Results