They’re Off! 7,500 Runners Steal the Track at Santa Anita’s Derby Day
Two-legged thoroughbreds take over Santa Anita on April 4.
By: Peter Dills
Before the horses break from the gate, before the crowd studies the Racing Form, something else takes over Arcadia on Derby Day morning: running shoes.
On Saturday, April 4, the popular Derby Day 5K returns to Santa Anita Park, continuing a tradition that began back in 1995. Organizers expect the event to once again sell out at its 7,500-participant capacity, making it one of Southern California’s most unique race experiences — and not the kind involving thoroughbreds.
The 5K begins at 8:00 a.m., with runners and walkers launching from the South Lot before winding past the grandstand and heading north on Baldwin Avenue. From there, participants take a rare turn through the 127-acre Los Angeles County Arboretum and Botanic Garden — known for its lakes, lush gardens and peacocks — before returning to the Santa Anita infield, greeted by video boards, cheers and the backdrop of the San Gabriel Mountains.
“It’s a record year,” said Pete Siberell, Santa Anita’s Director of Community Events and Special Projects. “There’s nothing quite like watching the sun come up over the mountains as thousands of people make their way toward the finish line.”
The event is as much civic pride as it is cardio. The City of Arcadia plays a major role in staffing and safety, while USC Arcadia Hospital returns as the presenting sponsor, with hundreds of employees expected to participate.
Derby Day 5K returns to Santa Anita Park at full capacity, with 7,500 participants. Photo: arboretum.org.
“It’s another great opportunity for Arcadia to shine and show off our beautiful city and partnerships,” says Jose Luis Correa, Head of Memberships at the Arcadia Chamber of Commerce.
For those 21 and over, the reward is immediate — two complimentary beers and a post-race party — followed by a full afternoon of world-class racing. First post is noon, highlighted by the Grade I Santa Anita Derby, along with additional stakes races and the ever-popular Spring Carnival.
Baldwin Avenue will be closed between the 210 Freeway and Huntington Drive from 7:30 to 10:00 a.m., so early arrival is strongly encouraged.
By the time the starting gates open for the horses, Arcadia will already have crowned thousands of winners — all before lunch.
Registration is open at derbyday5k.com and is expected to sell out.
