Marathon
America ’ s Finest Race
Freedom Dogs
When San Diego native Christy Carreño started the Beach and Bay Half Marathon , her dream was to create the ultimate running event that she would want to participate in . The race , which will take place on April 10 and includes 5k and 10k options , starts at Tecolote Shores Park and winds its way along many of the iconic beaches and bays of San Diego .
What earned Beach and Bay the runner up position for Runner ’ s World magazine ’ s Best International Running Event award is the attention to detail . Carreño has been producing events , including galas , conferences , races , book signings , and even a food and wine festival , in and around San Diego for decades . Runners make such an effort to get to the race , she explains , “ They train for months . Many people fly to San Diego specifically to participate . And then they get up before dawn to give their all to the race . “ I don ’ t want them to just get their medal and be on their way . The finish line is just the beginning .” The finish line festival at Beach and Bay will feature live music , dozens of vendors , and a beer garden serving artisan brews . “ I try to create an atmosphere that invites our runners to stay and celebrate their accomplishments .”
A portion of the proceeds from Beach and Bay will go toward supporting several local charities , including Freedom Dogs , a nonprofit dedicated to the training of Service Dogs that help wounded American military heroes transitioning from military to civilian life , a cause close to Carreño ’ s heart , since she raised a service dog . Being part of the service dog community , Carreño shares , “ I ’ ve seen first-hand how a service dog can change a person ’ s life .” Freedom Dogs , along with their trainers , provide wounded warriors with the physical and emotional support they need to successfully transition back into civilian life . “ The fact that I can contribute to that transition in some small way through Beach and Bay makes our work that much more satisfying .”
70 GBSAN . COM | MARCH 2022