A lot can happen in a decade. Kids become adults, businesses rise and fall, and events that started off small can grow into large, anticipated traditions. This spring, you can celebrate the tenth anniversary of the California Classic Half Marathon and also participate in the California Classic Century rides on the same weekend.
The bike race takes place on Saturday, April 4, 2020. It will play host to over 2,000 bike riders. On Sunday, April 5, 2020, another 2,000+ runners will participate in the California Classic Half Marathon and related races. The day before, participants should attend the Orangetheory Health & Fitness Expo at Clovis Recreational Center. The Expo is open from 11:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. on April 3.
Race to the Finish Line
The events are spread out over six races, three of which are bike races. Here are more details:
- California Classic Half Marathon
The half marathon (13.1 miles) will start at Chukchansi Park, go through the Fresno Chaffee Zoo, and then finish along the home-plate inside of Chukchansi Park.
- 10K Zoo Run
This 6.2-mile race replaces the relay race from years past. The starting point for running will be the Fresno Chaffee Zoo, and the finish line will be at Chukchansi Stadium.
- Rock n Run 5k
The Rock n Run 5k is a family-friendly event. It is meant for those individuals who are not interested in the longer 10K or half marathon races, but still want to get a good run in. People will join together and run, jog, or walk through Downtown Fresno and enjoy the music.
- The California Classic Century
The century (100-mile race) is the big daddy of bike events this weekend, but there are also 35-mile and 60-mile races available. This event is not to be missed since you’ll get to cycle on a closed freeway. This unique race is actually the only ride in California that closes a freeway just for riders.
Your Grand Prize
- Michelob Ultra Challenge
Anyone who takes place in both a run and bike event during the weekend will be awarded a Michelob Ultra Challenge completion. That means you’ll receive a newly-designed run/bike hat and two cool finisher medals that interlock.
- New Safari Animal Pin
Every year a new safari animal pin is introduced by race organizers. In 2019, the giraffe was introduced. For 2020, finishers will get an elephant pin to add to their collection. Racers can pick up pins at the Health and Fitness Expo when they gather their bib number, shirt, and other gear before the race.
Where to Carb Load Before the Races?
Participants should train for the races months in advance but one of the most important ways to prepare for a big race is to carb load the day before. Carbs=energy! Fresno’s restaurant scene is terrific because of the diversity in food. Consider the following places to eat in Fresno:
- The Annex Kitchen:
An Italian restaurant is a carb lover’s dream. Here you’ll find housemade plates of pasta and grilled meats, vegetables, and pizzas baked in a wood-burning oven.
- The Dog House Grill:
The 1. Dog House Grill is famous in Fresno for tasty burgers and barbecue. They also serve pork ribs and grilled chicken.
- Cracked Pepper Bistro:
Cracked Pepper Bistro presents a fusion of both American and European cuisine with a twist. The pesto balsamic with oven-cooked tomatoes and pumpkin seed-encrusted eggplant topped with goat cheese is a mouthwatering meal.
- Hunan Restaurant:
Chinese cuisine is the specialty of the Hunan restaurant. It has a beautiful interior with comfortable surroundings and a long menu with something for everyone.
Be Sure to Get Your Rest before the Races
Racers should be sure to get plenty of rest after carb-loading the day before the races. They should consider accommodations in the Central Valley, close to the River Park Shopping Center and Downtown Fresno. There are many recommended Fresno CA hotels to stay at.
The Hyatt Place Fresno has a fun, modern design that makes for a relaxing stay. It’s also conveniently located near the race. The Fresno DoubleTree by Hilton Fresno Convention Center is another good choice. Free Wi-Fi and free parking are available to all rooms. There are also fitness centers on-site at both hotels in case you need to get a last-minute workout.
What to do After the Races?
Fresno is the fifth-largest city in California with a lot to do and see. It has beautiful underground gardens that are a grand attraction of tourists. The famous Fresno Chaffee Zoo (where the California Classic Half Marathon takes place!) and Yosemite National Park are also places of great fascination.
Don’t miss it out!
With races varying in length from 3 miles up to 13 miles, plus several bike events, there’s something for everyone during the California Classic Weekend. And hey, even if you don’t think you’re up to it, recent studies suggest that running will help your knees!
About The Author:
Rebecca Stuart is a part-time freelance writer and a full-time lover of healthy lifestyle living. She is passionate about fitness and spends her free time working out and finding new recipes to try.
