Thousands run in New Year's Race Los Angeles

DOWNTOWN LOS ANGELES (KABC) -- The New Year's festivities continued at Grand Park in downtown Los Angeles on Sunday as half-marathon runners were having a well-deserved celebration after a run under the stars.

Thousands of runners started the year off at a fast pace, taking over the streets for a night of racing in the New Year's Race Los Angeles 2016.

"We run half marathons so we decided 'Hey, let's do it in LA and do it at night," said Venice Lacy, a runner.

Sixteen members of the Costa family also decided to take on the challenge together.

Participants were able to run a 5k, 10k or half-marathon race. This year runners could also do the doubleheader challenge, which means running one of the shorter races and the half-marathon.

"I love the city of LA. I love running the LA marathon, I love running this kind of race," said Robert Manon, a participant.

Paul Martelletti was the night's big winner, taking on a 5k and then running the 13-mile half-marathon in about 1 hour and 12 minutes.

He crossed the finish line minutes ahead of the other competitors.

"Just amazing running through the Dodger stadium," said Martelletti. "I was all on my own and it was just brilliant."