that did justice to Heal the Bay as an organization and it has become a great way to reach people, to raise funds and to introduce people to the great work that Heal the Bay does … I just wanted to find a way to get people excited about cleaning up the bay.”
Last year’s event raised nearly $15,000 for Heal the Bay and Abraham hopes to top that this time around. He also expects Heal the Bay’s membership to grow by 15 percent as every runner who signs up has the option of a free membership to the organization.
As for the race itself, Abraham, an avid outdoorsman, wanted to design a course from the runner’s point of view. He spent roughly a year working with City Hall to come up with a course that he says highlights the best of what Santa Monica has to offer.
“I think it is deceptively difficult,” Abraham said of the course. “People assume that it is basically flat, but there are three miles that gradually go uphill, which can take a lot of people by surprise. It’s challenging but also fun.”
Abraham was quick to point out that he will be running the event, not running in the event.
Event amenities and activities will include an environmentally themed expo and an interactive Web site featuring streaming video, podcasts and training plans.
Nike hosts the official training program for the race through Club Run L.A., which consists of training runs four nights a week for the five weeks leading up the race. This is the second year Nike has been involved with the event.
“We’re excited to partner with the Santa Monica Classic for the second year,” said Tanya Lopes, media relations manager for Nike. “The race is a great fit for Nike as it allows us to further connect with our local running community in one of the most iconic running destinations in Southern California.”
Originally published in the Santa Monica Daily Press print edition on May 2, 2008. Read the original PDF.