Los Angeles 2028 Olympic marathon: A dream start from Venice Beach
Some marathons captivate the imagination more than others. On Tuesday, April 15, the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Organizing Committee unveiled the plan for the venues hosting the main events. The marathon will begin in one of the most iconic places on the American West Coast… Venice Beach.
| Venice Beach, the essence of Los Angeles
Yes, Venice Beach. With its palm trees, oceanfront promenade, playground basketball players, bodybuilders at Muscle Beach, street performers, roller skaters, sunshine, and laid-back vibe that blends the Californian postcard with L.A.’s bohemian spirit. This legendary spot will be the starting line for the world’s top marathoners in just over three years, cheered on by a massive crowd.
This choice is not random. Venice Beach is more than just a backdrop; it’s a symbol. It’s the epitome of the Californian lifestyle and a city that merges sports and cultures from all over. By setting the start in this relaxed and warm environment, LA2028 aims to make a bold statement, much like Paris 2024 did with the Eiffel Tower or Les Invalides. It’s also an invitation for the world to explore L.A. through its stunning Pacific Coast.
“Our venue plan will shine a light on Games like never before throughout every corner of our city—from Sepulveda Basin to the iconic beaches of Venice Beach, through our globally renowned neighborhoods and hidden treasures, everything will be illuminated for all to experience and enjoy.”
Reynold Hoover, CEO of LA2028
The complete course has not been revealed yet, but it is expected to allow athletes to run through the city’s most iconic neighborhoods, from the coast to the bustling heart of Downtown L.A. A journey on foot through the City of Angels, like a voyage between ocean, palm trees, skyscrapers, and hills.
While Paris aimed to deliver a Games open to everyone, with stadiums in the city’s heart and a public marathon for 17,361 amateur participants, LA28 has yet to disclose whether the public race concept will be renewed in 2028.
With this announcement, the organizers offer a first glimpse of their ambition: to make the Olympic marathon an extraordinary moment, worthy of the legendary status of this event. We still remember the summer of 2024 when Sifan Hassan and Tamirat Tola set Olympic records in Paris, in a historic setting. In 2028, the appointment is set under the Californian sun. The countdown has begun.
