Flooding, Endangered Fish And Red Tape Threatens Cancelation Of Malibu Triathlon

MALIBU, CA — Flooding of the Zuma Beach underpass, an endangered fish species and red tape are threatening to cancel the 2023 Malibu Triathlon, which is planned for Sept. 30-Oct. 1.

The event's traditional racecourse utilizes the Busch Drive undercrossing at Zuma Beach, which has been flooded due to last winter's heavy rains. In the past, organizers have built temporary ramps over water accumulation. But that won't work this year after the tidewater goby — protected under the Endangered Species Act — has made a habitat in the flooded underpass, organizers told Patch.

"The U.S. Department of Fish and Wildlife has identified an endangered fish species in the flooded area and will not allow the use of a temporary bridge crossing," Malibu City Manager Steve McClary wrote in his weekly newsletter.

That meant organizers had to find an alternate route.

Here's the problem: Though organizers began the city permit application process in March, city officials said organizers' Aug. 31 submittal of the final, alternate route came too late. Under city law, officials must notify people who live or own property near the racecourse at least 32 days before the event in order for a permit to be issued, according to a city Planning Department report.

As a result, the city planning director rejected the permit application. That could mean the triathlon won't be allowed to move forward on the planned dates.

But organizers have one last shot at a Sept. 30 - Oct. 1 event: Their appeal of the permit rejection will be considered by the Malibu Planning Commission on Monday, Sept. 18 at 6:30 p.m.

McClary wrote that the Planning Commission's decision will determine whether the event will be able to more forward on those dates.

"We remain fully committed to the event and are working with relevant parties throughout the process of this appeal," triathlon organizers wrote in a statement in response to Patch's questions. "We want to sincerely thank our participants, fundraisers, sponsors, volunteers, and the wonderful Malibu community for your unwavering support and patience. Your dedication has helped us to drive our mission to raise funds for Children’s Hospital Los Angeles."

Organizers are expecting over 5,000 athletes to participate in the annual swim-bike-run race, which is now in its 38th year.

You can find more information about viewing or participating in Monday's Planning Commission meeting at the city's website.