An increased security presence was visible at the Seaside Semper Five race Saturday morning to assure the safety of this year's participants.

Last year, a pipe bomb exploded in a trash can on the course, prompting the race to be canceled.

More than 2,000 racers showed up Saturday to run and raise money for the Marine Corps Special Operations Command Foundation, which helps both active and retired Marines, sailors and their families.

The event has grown since last year with 32 states being represented.

"The country needs to come together when you have these kind of things you have to stop up to terrorists and let them know that they're not going to stop our way of life and what we do as a country," says Marine Matthew Veprak.

News 12 was proud to be a presenting sponsor of the Semper Five Race.