Rock, roll and run at the first Rock ‘n’ Roll half marathon in L.A. this fall

Time to lace up your running shoes, Angelenos, and maybe grab a guitar. The Rock ‘n’ Roll half-marathon is coming this fall.

The Rock ‘n’ Roll marathon and half-marathon series, now in 14 cities across the country, has a reputation for being one of the … less serious races. Sure, there are top-notch competitors and dedicated runners who do the course, but the presence of live bands, cheerleaders and entertainment at the finish line brings a distinctive party atmosphere to the event.

Los Angeles has been on the radar since the Competitor Group bought the marathon series in 2008, said San Diego-based president Scott Dickey. The company took over the City of Angels Half Marathon, and that 13.1-mile distance is becoming increasingly popular, Dickey said, especially among first-time racers.

Special features of the Oct. 24 race include local bands, themed water stations and cheerleaders along the course. Special, yet-to-be-named entertainment will perform at the finish line. The course starts at Griffith Park and continues along the L.A. River, down Sunset Boulevard and ends downtown.

“The half is a great way to train for a full marathon,” Dickey said, “and it’s more obtainable for a lot of people. Usually 40% of the people in our various Rock ‘n’ Roll events are first-timers, and it’s a real pinnacle event for them.”

Registration is available for the L.A. event, and the company is searching for local bands to perform, as well as area cheer teams and dance squads.

If this has motivated you to get off the couch and start training, USA Marathon Training, the Los Angeles Running Club and Ventura Road Runners all offer training programs.