The Costumed Runner Blog: Las Vegas Rock N Roll Half Marathon (November 16, 2014)

Pictured: Mel Ortiz (Pre-Race Princess Leia). Photographer Bola Majekobaje

Pictured (Left to Right): Mel Ortiz and Bola Majekobaje. Photographer: Jaime Soltero
The Day of the Race
I was able to see some great homemade costumes at the pre-concert and corrals. My running costume definitely drew many requests for photo ops and the proverbial question “Are you really going to wear that the whole time?” Yes, yes, and yes!
It was amazing to see Macklemore and Ryan Lewis perform and in such close proximity. They definitely got us pumped up for the race which was needed due to the cold desert air making its way through. My crew and I huddled close and enjoyed the show with all the other runners before the start of the race.

Pictured: Macklemore, Ryan Lewis, and crew. Photographer: Bola Majekobaje.
We had to get one last group shot before the start line with the Mandalay Bay in the back with reflections of the sunset. This was the first half marathon for our friend Abel Hernandez who is the Chef of a local Portland eatery owned by Jaime Soltero called “Tamale Boy”. Abel did great and kept a steady pace which proved his training was excellent.

Pictured (Left to Right): Sarita Amaya, Jaime Soltero, Mel Ortiz, Abel Hernandez, and Bola Majekobaje.
As for Princess Leia it was a hit. We had some snafus during mile 1 and then I decided to reposition the headpiece which made it easier to run with and stayed on tight. Many shout outs from the crowd were positive and encouraging. My trusty light saber provided some light on the course that proved to be very dark. I could tell the Force was with me and would recommend this race on any runner’s bucket list.

Pictured: The Las Vegas Rock and Roll Half Marathon medal.