The Biggest & Best Year Yet- Tip Top Run 2023

Our annual Tip Top Run, hosted on March 18th, 2023, was the most exciting 5K/10K Fun Run of the year. The theme for the event was St. Patrick's Day, which gave runners an opportunity to show off their festive spirit and creativity!

500+ participants were treated to a scenic course that took them through some of the most beautiful parts of Carlsbad and offered up many a panoramic view. The runs started at 8:30 am, and runners of all ages and abilities gathered at both the 5K and 10K starting lines, eager to get moving. The atmosphere was electric, with the sound of cheering and high-fives filling the air.

The event was not just about running, but also about celebrating World Water Day, which falls on March 22nd every year. To commemorate the occasion, the finish line was transformed into a vibrant festival that showcased the importance of water conservation and sustainability. With over 25 vendors and exhibitors, Endless Blue on the mic, costume contests, a Raptor Presentation, and raffle drawings, it was quite the celebration!

Food and refreshments were provided by Tip Top Meats and Culver Beer! We were lucky to be able to honor the late great John Haedrich (Founder of Tip Top Meats) and everything he has done to support the community at the event. AHLF will also be planting a tree in his honor on Arbor Day to commemorate his amazing generosity. Tip Top Meats provided delicious and healthy food options that runners could enjoy after the race. Culver Beer came out for the second year in a row to support this incredible event providing refreshing beer that helped runners relax and unwind after the race.

Tip Top Run was more than just a fun run; it was an opportunity for the community to come together and support a great cause. The event was a success, and all proceeds went towards supporting water conservation efforts for the Agua Hedionda Lagoon and the Discovery Center’s education programs teaching our youngsters about the importance of our watershed.

In conclusion, the Tip Top Run was a memorable event that brought together people from all walks of life to celebrate St. Patrick's Day, World Water Day, support a great cause, and enjoy a healthy and fun activity. With a beautiful course, delicious food, and refreshing beer, it was an event that runners and non-runners alike will not soon forget.

Special Thank You To:

Poseidon Water – Event Sponsor

Tip Top Meats- Food

Culver Beer- Beer

Kathy Kinane- Finish Line

Lynnell Talone-Honda- Bib Sponsor

Rayne Water- Water Station

Eco Water- Water Station

Maureen Simons- Tip Top Run Committee Chair and décor

The Crossings- Bathroom access

Premier Kia of Carlsbad- Letting us host a water station at their location

Mike Metts- Finish Line banner

Harini Natarajan “Rinis Photography”- Beautiful photos

Our Vendors and Exhibitioners

Every volunteer that not only helped the day of but also the weeks beforehand

The Agua Hedionda Lagoon Foundation Team