Following the announcement of the new course for the 2021 Los Angeles Marathon presented by ASICS we feel that it is important to address the concerns raised by some members of the running community. We take pride in our organization’s proven reputation for hosting high quality events and we have plans in place, which we will share, that address these concerns.

As of December 2019, The Los Angeles Marathon has been owned and managed by The McCourt Foundation, a nonprofit organization which began in 1992 and is dedicated to enhancing the lives of patients and families affected by health challenges. The Los Angeles Marathon has assisted more than 70 different community groups and has raised more than $58,000,000 over the last decade on their behalf. Additionally, we have donated approximately $1,000,000 every year to support Students Run LA and the 26 th Mile. While we have always had a steadfast commitment to the Greater Los Angeles Community, becoming a nonprofit organization holds us even further accountable to make certain that the decisions we make are financially responsible.

Regarding the new course, we want to be clear that it was our desire for the finish of the Los Angeles Marathon to remain in Santa Monica. However, the dramatically increased costs quoted by the City of Santa Monica for the 2021 running of the marathon, and future events, made remaining in Santa Monica financially infeasible. The City of Santa Monica has been aware of this position at all times and was notified of the course change well in advance of the public.

The new course was designed by one of the most experienced event planning teams in the endurance sports world. Our vision for the new course will be an experience appreciated by our runners.

We believe in our work and that next year’s race will be a top quality, world class event that supports every competitor of every ability and aspiration to achieve their dreams. The finish on Avenue of the Stars also allows exciting modifications not previously possible in Santa Monica such as enhanced spectator viewing and celebrations at the finish line.

It’s time to put the focus back where it belongs – on the running clubs and charity partners and the evolution of our magnificent event.

We want to thank the City of Santa Monica for staging the finish of the Los Angeles Marathon over the last several years. A special thank you to all those in the City of LA who will now be hosting the finish and to our runners for your passion and continued support.