The Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook will be the venue for a 5k run/walk, organized by Aztlan Athletics Foundation, beginning at 6 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 11.
A prize of $250 will be given to the person who places first in the 5k. Top finishers categorized by age are eligible to win awards too, sources say. Climbing 282 steps and running or walking on the Hetzler Road path is what it takes to complete the run/walk; water stations will be available along the way.
Race director, Jose Luis Zavala said the event is hosted by the LLC Aztlan Athletics, which owns Aztlan Athletic Foundation, a 501c3 organization. He said the foundation “oversees the participating charities and provides endorsements for those agencies that want to use select events as fundraisers. Conquer the Overlook earmarks proceeds to Aztlan Athletics Foundation and the Alternatives to Violence program for 2018.”
Known unofficially as Culver City Stairs, locals and visitors alike can be seen on any given day climbing the steps of the Overlook or running and hiking the trails where a spectacular panoramic view of the Los Angeles Basin and the Pacific Ocean is enjoyed and often photographed from the top.
A visitor’s center with picnic tables is an incentive for some. A wide variety of native plants and flowers can be found along the scenic path. The grey fox, desert cottontail rabbits, and gophers have made the Overlook their home. Red-tailed hawks may be seen as well states the California State Parks website.
Free parking is available inside the lower end of the park and on the much of Jefferson Boulevard surrounding the Overlook. The top parking lot is for staff, vendors and VIP parking only and the cost is $6. The walk to the top of the Overlook where the run/walk begins is about 15 minutes, so arriving early is encouraged. A limited shuttle service will be available according to the website.
A cost of $55 dollars covers the 5k run/walk which includes the 282-step climb, a taco bar, and two beers. The 5k run/walk without the food and drink is $40. Lastly, $25 is the price for a guest pass which includes the taco bar, two beers, entertainment and the after party.
The Taco Fiesta bar opens from 7 to 11 p.m. The beer garden area will be asking for proof of age as participants need to be at least 21 years of age to consume alcohol and stay in the garden area during consumption. There will also be a DJ and dancing said Zavala.
A commemorative “282 Steps Climb Challenge” medal will be given out to all who complete the challenge. T-shirts, free snacks, entertainment, and access to fitness and wellness booths are available for those who register as race participants. There will be free activities for children.
The race will take place at Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook at 6300 Hetzler Road, Culver City, California 90232. To register or for further information please go to www.conquertheoverlook.com or call 626-755-8489.
