Get Ready for Reyes Adobe Days' 10K

Every year since 2005, one of the most anticipated events of the 3-day Reyes Adobe Days festival has been the road race, a 5K that took runners and walkers from the north end of Reyes Adobe Road all the way to the Western town at Paramount Ranch. This year, the race on October 1, is a RAD 10K, which will require more training and preparation. 

Each week leading up to the race, Patch will offer advice from the experts–for participants of all fitness levels–on how to get ready for the big day.

Inaugural 10K Race

“We’re excited that we’re having a 10K for the first time in the history of Reyes Adobe Days,” said Danny Greenberg, race director.

Greenberg also owns Endurance Events, which organizes and produces , another much-anticipated local race that takes place in the spring.

According to Greenberg, the RAD 10K course will be point-to-point with scenic landmarks along the way.

Participants should expect to pass by the 160-year-old Reyes Adobe, Forest Cove Park and the historic El Camino Real before winding down at a Western movie set inside Paramount Ranch.

Hills and Thrills

“Since we’re in Agoura Hills, [runners] should definitely expect some hills,” said Greenberg.

The elevation at the start is 1,050 feet and 650 feet at the finish. “It’s a fast course, too, with a lot of downhill towards the end where they can pick up the pace,” said the race director.

At the finish, participants can board shuttles, which will take them back to Reyes Adobe Park, for the pancake breakfast, expo and awards ceremonies. Awards will be handed out to the top three male and female finishers in every age group.

The race is starting to sell out with over 600 people already registered, doubling last year’s count. “So far, we’ve had sign-ups from 75 different cities around the state and some out-of-towners,” said Greenberg.

As part of an ongoing green commitment, registration for the 10K is completely online. The current $35 registration fee is expected to go up in September and comes with a finisher’s shirt and a goodie bag.

Getting Psyched

If you’ve never run a 10K before, the time to start training is now. First, get clearance from your doctor, warns Greenberg.

Second, start gradually. Most experienced runners and coaches advise starting off with 15 to 20 minutes of running, walking or a combination of both. Do this three to four times a week, he said.

“For a beginner, the most important thing is to finish the race and have an enjoyable experience,” said Greenberg.

If you want to use this 10K as a training run for future races, keep running. Do your homework and check the course once it’s posted online. Drive the course or run segments of it.

“Most people do better when they’re familiar with the course,” said Greenberg.

To register, click here.

Next week’s topic: Running gear