SAN DIEGO — More than 30,000 runners from 49 states and 48 countries, regions and territories, will take over several San Diego neighborhoods this weekend for the 26th Rock ‘n’ Roll Running Series San Diego.
Nearly 30 bands and entertainers are performing throughout the half and full marathon courses on Sunday.
Here is everything you need to know about the race weekend.
When is the race?
The Rock ‘n’ Roll 5k is Saturday, June 1. The race starts at 7 a.m.
The half and full marathons are Sunday June 2, starting at 6:15 a.m.
Where does the route go?
5k
The 5k on Saturday goes through Balboa Park. It starts at President’s Way and Park Boulevard and ends at Balboa Drive.
Half and full marathon
Both the half and full marathons start at Sixth Avenue & Quince Street at Balboa Park, and finish at Ash Street & Union Street near Waterfront Park.
Both routes pass through North Park and Normal Heights before splitting off a little more than eight miles in. The half marathon then goes through Balboa Park and into downtown. The marathon rooutes through Hillcrest, Mission Hills, Old Town and past Sea World, then loops back to University Heights and down Balboa Park to the downtown finish.
See the full race routes here.
What roads are closed?
Most road closures and detours on Sunday will happen between 5:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m.
Here is a full list of road closures, which include some freeway and ramp closures.
The Rock ‘n’ Roll organization suggests using the Waze app to avoid race day closures and locate alternate routes.
Streets will reopen on a rolling basis after the last participant crosses the finish line and all course materials have been removed, according to the race series’ website.
See more details on road closures and alternate routes for Sunday, June 2.
Are there public transportation options to get close to the race?
Yes! The San Diego Trolley has stops along both the half and full marathon routes.
To get close to the start and finish lines: To arrive near the starting line, take the trolley to Middletown, 1.4 miles away. To arrive close to the finish line, exit the trolley at the Courthouse, 0.2 miles away, or County Center/Little Italy, 350 feet from the Finish Fest.
To get dropped off to cheer: You can also take the trolley to stops along the marathon route to watch and cheer on the runners. The trolley has stops at mile 13.5 (Old Town), mile 13.7 (Morena/Linda Vista), mile 18 (Tecolote Road), mile 20 (Fashion Valley) and mile 21 (Hazard Center).
Where are the best spots to cheer?
The Rock ‘n’ Roll organization suggests Hillcrest, North Park and Normal Heights as fun areas to watch from.
To catch both half and full marathon runners, pick a spot before the 8 mile marker. Other recommended spots are the areas near mile 2, mile 6, mile 11 and mile 19.
Where should I park if I’m racing?
Park on side streets near 6th Avenue and Quince Street. Note that 6th Avenue itself will be closed.
Where should I park if I want to be at the finish line?
The Rock ‘n’ Roll organization recommends parking on side streets around downtown and Little Italy. The finish line is at Union and Ash streets. Note that Ash Street will be closed.
For more information, visit the Rock ‘n’ Roll San Diego website.
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