90 Freeway Shut For Runners For First Time Since 1984 LA Olympics

CULVER CITY (CBSLA) — For the first time since the 1984 Los Angeles Olympics, the 90 Freeway was shut down for runners as part of a 10K race.

The #ChooseGo race got underway just after 7:30 a.m. Sunday, and thousands participated.

Among the participants was the group - Students Run LA – which helps at-risk secondary students with goal-setting by introducing them to physical fitness, and mentoring.

"I wanted to try something new and I wanted to be part of something I've never done before," said Jessica Moreno, a seventh grader and member of Students Run LA.

A portion of the proceeds from the race will go toward Students Run LA, as well as other groups.

CBS2's Joy Benedict spoke to one woman who knew the course well.

"Just to get out there and move -- ChooseGo is what our sport is all about," said Joan Benoit Samuelson.

Back in 1984 she was winning the Olympic gold for the women's marathon, the first time the women's race was offered.

"I just want to thank all the women who proceeded me in this sport," she said.

Benoit-Samuelson recalls the race from 1984.

"There weren't many of us running down the LA freeway in 1984," she said, "and to be doing it carbon free on Earth Day was very special."

At the age of 60, Benoit Samuelson is hoping to inspire future runners.

"When I'm running, I don't think about thing that happen in school or with my family, I'm just running for the moment," said Ricky Rodriguez or Students Run LA.

The race was sponsored by Nike.