Lace up your running shoes and gather your canines for the third annual Bob Long Memorial Mutt Run, returning to the shores of Granada Beach on Saturday, Feb. 1.
All local walkers, runners and pet lovers are invited to this morning full of activities, outdoor exercise and pet appreciation in Belmont Shore.
The Rotary Club of Signal Hill orchestrates this yearly event, which is named in honor of local animal welfare advocate Bob Long, who passed away in 2022. The event carries a dual purpose of keeping Long’s mission alive and supporting the services of Long Beach Animal Care Services (LBACS).
Taking place at the Claremont Launch Ramp, located at 5350 E. Ocean Blvd., two 5K races — one for humans only and another for humans and their dogs — begins at 8:30 a.m., followed by a 1K race at 8:45 a.m. Pet owners must keep participating dogs leashed at all times and remain on the beach pedestrian pathway.
At the start and finish line there will be a post-race festival with an adoption event by LBACS and local nonprofit K9 Kismet, and pet-related vendors stocked with treats, accessories, services and more. A majority of event proceeds (70%) will go towards LBACS and 30% will support the community project fund at Signal Hill Rotary.
“We’re thrilled to announce the return of the Bob Long Memorial Mutt Run for its second year,” said Les Young, past president of the Signal Hill Rotary Club in a recent press release. “This event is not just about running—it’s about coming together as a community to support our furry friends and the invaluable work of Long Beach Animal Care Services. We’re excited to create a fun-filled day where both pets and their owners can make a difference.”
Registration for the 1K is $43.40, both versions of the 5K are $69.90 each and is limited to 300 participants. Race participants will receive a commemorative T-shirt and a finisher medal with the top three finishers receiving awards.
Mutt Run attendees can find paid parking at the 54th & Clairemont lot and the nearby La Verne Avenue lot.
To register for the race, receive more information or look into sponsorship opportunities, visit signalhillrotary.org/lb-mutt-run.