The Surf City Marathon presented by Biofreeze has announced that both its marathon and half marathon distances have sold out ahead of its 30th anniversary on February 1, 2026.
Close to 20,000 runners are expected to participate in the event, which is the largest annual running competition in Orange County, CA. While the 26.2 mile and 13.1 mile races have reached capacity, registration remains open for the 5km and the Beach Mile.
The 2026 edition will feature local honorees who have influenced surf culture, such as Peter Townend, the first IPS/ASP World Surfing Champion. The event aims to highlight the connections between the sport of running and the local Huntington Beach community.
Phyllis Blanchard, Vice President of Commercial Partnerships at Motiv Sports, the producer of the event, said “The high demand we’ve seen for the marathon and the half marathon, alongside the continued popularity of the 5K and Beach Mile, make it clear: runners love returning to Surf City USA for an exceptional coastline experience that could only happen here.
“Beyond just the oceanfront views, our participants can feel the authentic local connections and longstanding relationships that set this race apart. It’s what has made this event such a success for the last 30 years, and what will allow it to keep growing for the next 30.”
The event also features the Longboard Legacy Program, which recognises runners who return for three or more consecutive years. Approximately 1,900 legacy participants are expected this year, receiving perks such as exclusive apparel, race weekend upgrades, and an additional beverage at the post-race festival.
The marathon and half marathon courses are known for being fast and flat, following the Pacific Coast Highway and offering views of the Pacific Ocean. The 2026 race weekend begins with the Beach Mile on Saturday, January 31, followed by the main distances on Sunday.
The event is supported by several sponsors including presenting partner Biofreeze, which provides on-course cooling stations. Other partners include Sports Basement, compression brand 2XU, and TruMoo, which serves chocolate milk at the finish line.
Motiv Sports is an event organizer in North America. Its portfolio includes the 2XU Long Beach Marathon, which features more than 20,000 finishers, and the Bay to Breakers, which has been held for over a century.
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