Venice, CA (May 19, 2025) — The streets of Venice came alive this past weekend as more than 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.

In its debut year, 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.

From competitive runners to stroller-pushing families, participants of all ages laced up for an unforgettable course that highlighted Venice’s most iconic sites—Muscle Beach, the historic Venice Canals (complete with live gondola serenades), Venice Boulevard, Abbot Kinney, and the old Venice Jail House—before finishing under the legendary Venice Sign.

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

“We set out to create something that captured the magic and grit of Venice while giving back to the community,” said Michelle Lindner, Marketing Director at Generic Events and a 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 – Inaugural Venice Beach Half Marathon & 5K

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:
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
🔗 Full race results available at: Athlinks Results

About the Organizers
The Venice Beach Half Marathon & 5K is produced by Generic Events, founded and operated by longtime Venetians and husband-wife duo Brennan and Michelle Lindner. Both of their children have attended Coeur d’Alene Elementary, with their youngest currently enrolled at Venice High School. Brennan serves on the Venice Chamber of Commerce and has held past leadership roles with the Venice Neighborhood Council and Friends of Venice Boardwalk, where he played a key role in post-pandemic revitalization efforts.
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.
With overwhelming support, high energy, and a deep community spirit, Venice now boasts a new annual tradition—one that celebrates movement, music, and meaningful local impact.

For more information or to register for next year’s event, visit www.runvenicebeach.com.

Photos and video available upon request.