Over 31K Run In San Diego Rock 'N' Roll Marathon

SAN DIEGO, CA — Overcast skies didn't prevent more 31,000-plus runners participating in this weekend's Rock 'n' Roll Marathon downtown, organizers said.

In the men's marathon, Devin Desouza of Arlington, Texas, won with a time of 2:29:43.

For the women's race, Shelby Meek of Nampa, Idaho, took the top spot with a time of 2:58:51. In the half-marathon, Flagstaff, Arizona resident Abrham Tesfamaria ran the 13.1-mile route in 1:05:17 to win first place.

Julia Vasquez of San Francisco took the women's title, with a time of 1:14:07.

"Today was what San Diego is all about -- energy, excitement and an unforgettable experience for every participant," said Colleen McDonald, race director of Rock 'n' Roll San Diego.

"From the first note of live music to the final step across the finish line, this city showed up in a big way," McDonald said. "We couldn't be more thrilled with the turnout, the vibe and the memories made on the course."

A bona fide rock star with was also on hand: Blink-182 drummer Travis Barker joined thousands of runners on Sunday.

The Fontana native "has embraced running as a key part of his wellness routine in recent years," marathon organizers said. Barker's initiative, Run Travis Run, "has brought fans together nationwide through 5K events that blend movement and community."

Barker "ran under the radar and focused on the course, finishing strong alongside pro MMA fighter Marlon Andrés Vera Delgado," according to marathon organizers. At the finish line, the drummer of Blink182 -- formed in Poway in the early 1990s -- also took pictures with fans.

Race officials said participation was up by an 11% increase in marathon runners, at 8,000. Nearly 70% of runners who signed up for the 6:15 a.m. Sunday marathon were first-timers. The 26.2-mile-course began at Balboa Park and finished in downtown San Diego.

"This year, we're seeing more first-timers than ever, which is exactly what this series is all about -- welcoming new runners into the fold and showing them that running can be both a personal journey and a community celebration," McDonald said.

"We always encourage runners, especially first-timers, to find support through local run clubs -- longtime partners like San Diego Track Club are a great resource to train, connect and stay motivated."

Organizers said that the more than 6,500 runners from Mexico offered "vibrant energy and international flair to the event." The number of Mexican runners increased by 78% over last year's tally, which organizers said "highlights San Diego's standing as both a premier race destination and a weekend-long celebration of endurance, music and community spirit."

The marathon and half-marathon started at the same pistol, first heading up through Hillcrest, into Normal Heights, back down to North Park, where the races diverge. The half-marathon cut through Balboa Park and to the finish line. The full route continued through Hillcrest, Mission Hills, Old Town and Ocean Beach before turning north toward Sea World, then doubling back through Bay Park, Linda Vista, then cutting south near University Heights and Balboa Park. Both races finish downtown at Ash and Union streets.

Those marathoners who conquered the steep mile-22 "163 Highway to Hill," were able to clang a victory bell at the top. Throughout the course, live bands and cheer teams encouraged runners.

According to organizers, more than 40 runners took on the marathon course for the 27th time this year, hearkening back to the first running in San Diego in 1998. According to organizers, the marathon event began with the Health & Fitness Expo at the San Diego Convention Center, followed by 4,000 runners taking on the 5K course Saturday through Balboa Park.

"The energy carried through Sunday's races, culminating in an Encore Entertainment concert at Waterfront Park," they added.

"Along the way, runners rang the `Highway to Hill' bell at mile 22, honored legacy participants and experienced tributes to San Diego's rich running history throughout the course."

Runners may prepare for next year's marathon, scheduled for May 30-31, 2026 by going to runrocknroll.com/san-diego.

— City News Service