PHOTOS: Hermosa Beach Ironman 2012

They ran. They paddled. They drank. They puked.

The 2012 Hermosa Beach Ironman once again lived up to its rowdy reputation as more than 400 competitors raced in this year's competition and hundreds more took in the action.

The annual event, held every Fourth of July for more than 30 years in Hermosa Beach, challenges racers to run a mile, paddle a mile and then chug a six-pack of beer. The first person to finish those tasks without first throwing up is crowned the winner.

This year's male Ironman winner was Jeff Bellandi and the female winner was Andrea Bates.

While many competitors this year quickly finished the physical portion of the Ironman, many couldn't stomach the subsequent 72 ounces of beer without puking. Most of the time, the projectile vomiting was aimed at those brave enough to stand close to the competition.

An award was also given for "best puke" and music from local punk band Special C added additional entertainment for the event.

Hermosa Beach police were parked nearby on the beach and observed the event from a distance. Police did not intervene during the event.

, a report from the parks, recreation and community resources advisory commission to the city council said that while police should start cracking down on the event, no major crimes have occurred because of the event.

"This event presents an obvious conflict with our own rules, policies and laws and subjects the city to criticism and potential liability," the report stated. But, "that said, the Hermosa Ironman has not experienced any major incidents over the years."