41st LA Marathon Draws 27,000 Runners Amid Heat

More than 27,000 runners from all 50 states and more than 63 countries gathered at Dodger Stadium early Sunday for the 41st annual ASICS Los Angeles Marathon, a sold-out event that traces a 26.2-mile course through the city's iconic landmarks before finishing in Century City.

The race began in waves under clear skies, with temperatures starting at 59 degrees Fahrenheit at the 7 a.m. launch for the elite men and the bulk of the field. Professional elite wheelchair athletes started at 6:30 a.m., followed by handcycles and para athletes at 6:35 a.m., and elite women at 6:40 a.m. The Charity Half Marathon followed at 8:15 a.m. Organizers anticipated unseasonably warm conditions, with highs reaching the low 80s by midday, prompting a one-time adjustment to prioritize runner safety: participants facing difficulties can opt to finish after 18 miles on Santa Monica Boulevard and still receive a finisher's medal. Signs, cones and barricades guide runners to this early exit, and official results will later reflect the adjusted distance. Aid stations along the route offer water, electrolyte drinks, misting zones and increased ice supplies, with medical support at nine points, including...