Over 500 people attended the inaugural California Warrior Experience, an adventure-themed day of running races, obstacle courses, California Native Plant Society guided hikes and historical tours at Camp San Luis Obispo, hosted by the California Military Department Foundation in partnership with Race SLO.
“We’re thrilled with both the turnout and the enthusiasm for the inaugural California Warrior Experience. It was a great crowd, full of energy and camaraderie,” said Staff Sgt. Carl Trujillo, the event’s Race Director. “Our hope was to strengthen the relationship between the California military and civilian communities, and this event went a long way toward that goal. We believe California is stronger and safer when we invest in community and build bridges. That’s really what it means to be a California Warrior.”
In the trail running events, Templeton’s Rob Mead placed first in the 10K event with the time of 38 minutes, 9.6 seconds. Mary Cooper of San Luis Obispo placed first in the women’s 10K with a time of 48:42.1. In the 5K races, Pepe Gonzalez of Paso Robles placed first in the men’s race (21:37.2), and Arroyo Grande’s Stacey Smith won the women’s race (26:11.5).
In addition, there was also a kids run, military grade challenge obstacle tower, high ropes and rock wall, Cerro Romauldo hikes, historic Camp SLO bus tours, VIP reception and free festival. Collectible #CaliforniaWarrior shirts and medals for all were given out by the California Military Department members volunteering. The National Anthem and an F-15 flyover kicked off the races along with California Military Department helicopters, Humvee’s and a variety of military grade equipment for civilians to explore.
“Race SLO is a huge fan of the Military Department, it’s 20,000 Service members and all retired veterans. We have a deep relationship with Camp San Luis Obispo and took great pride in showcasing this beautiful treasure to the public. The entire event was a huge success and we look forward to next spring where we plan to expand the capacity and offerings,” said Samantha Pruitt, Race SLO CEO & California Warrior Experience Event Director.
ABOUT RACE SLO
Established in 2008 to bring world class sporting events to the beautiful California Central Coast, the Race SLO endurance event portfolio includes the inaugural California Warrior Experience (Spring 2018), 7th SLO Marathon + Half, Relays and 5K plus Kids Races (Spring 2018), 3rd SLO Ultra trail races (late Summer 2018) and the recently added US Trail Running Conference (late Summer 2018).
The Race SLO Team produces both fun & competitive running events year-round to create human connection through fitness and raise funds for local nonprofits: Jack’s Helping Hand, The Land Conservancy of SLO, Team Red, White & Blue, Grizzly Youth Academy and SLO County Parks.
Our mission: Through human experiences, we create social & economic impact to share our legacy.