Tie up those laces and get an early start celebrating Italian Republic Day on Sunday, June 2, during the third annual Little Italy Run in San Pedro.
More than 1,000 runners are expected for the 5-kilometer run in downtown San Pedro this year. The family-friendly event, which begins at 8 a.m., welcomes participants of all ages and abilities — runners, walkers and strollers — in a celebration of diverse genders and ethnicities, according to sponsors.
The Little Italy of Los Angeles Association is sponsoring the event, which takes participants through an iconic tour of San Pedro, including scenic streets near the waterfront and Port of Los Angeles — with the Pacific Ocean as a backdrop.
San Pedro is home to large numbers of Italian Americans, and officials have been developing a district there that honors all things Italian. A piazza is among the physical landmarks being created next to the San Pedro Municipal Building.
As for the race, registered participants will receive goodie bags with small gifts offered by home-products company simplehuman, the Port of Los Angeles, Battleship Iowa, Buono’s pizza, Impacto Training, San Pedro Fish Market and Gliuco USA.
The race will begin at the intersection of Sixth Street and Harbor Boulevard, and head south on Harbor before turning back.
A moment of silence will be held in memory of Michael-Patrick Hogue, the producer of the annual Conquer the Bridge Run. He died in January and was also instrumental in launching the Italy Run LA two years ago.
Organizers are also sponsoring 100 runners from Student Run Los Angeles. Councilmember Tim McOsker and the Italian Consul General will be on hand as well.
Free parking is available on Sundays in downtown San Pedro and also in the Topaz Building parking lot on Centre Street, between Fifth and Sixth streets ($2 an hour).
Runners can register online by going to the Little Italy of Los Angeles website, lilaa.org; registration is also available on the morning of the race. The cost is $35 for adults, $30 for teens 13-17 years old, and free for children 12 and under.
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