South Bay Run Celebrates 30th Year


By Brian Covert
Headlight Special Writer


More than 150 South Bay runners of all ages participated in an event last Sunday that has stayed right on track since the early 1950s: the Hermosa Beach Sand and Strand Distance Run.

February 7, 1982 marked the 30th year that young and old alike got together to compete in 2.5- and 5- mile sprints around a half-sand/half-concrete course for personal goals and time.

Although those who completed the race itself definitely deserve credit, some of the fastest runners this year included Alfredo Rosas of Torrance with 28.58 minutes and Patty Shiffert with 35.01 minutes. Other area runners included Christopher Smith of Torrance (third place in his category); Randy Kusano and Glen Masuda, both of Torrance, who came in second place in their age groups; Kathy Burnell of Lomita; and myself, from Harbor City, with 56.05 minutes.

As a participant in the Sand and Strand Run, this writer can certainly vouch for the fact that running in the sand isn’t as easy as building castles in it.

A few added obstacles to the race included a light rain, the pounding surf, a winter breeze, and the tempting smell of fried food in the air. The panoramic ocean and descending coastline views complemented the scenery, but at the end of five long and somewhat unevenly paced miles, a person is a lot closer to becoming “one with nature” than he or she may realize.

All kidding aside, this event, like many other “Runs” constantly happening around the South Bay area, provides an opportunity for both spectators and participators to get together in a positive, exhilarating atmosphere with a chance to cheer each other on.

All proceeds from the Sand and Strand Run were donated to the South Bay Free Clinic and the Hermosa Beach Department of Community Resources.