The annual race returned to celebrate scenic trails, local businesses and athletic excellence
AVALON, Calif. – The annual Catalina Island Half Marathon & 10K returned to the island on Nov. 8, bringing participants a scenic course of breathtaking views through one of California’s most unique destinations. The event featured three distances, including a half marathon (13.1 miles), a 10K (6.2 miles) and a kids fun run, welcoming participants of all levels to experience the beauty and challenge of the famous trail race.
The Catalina Island Half Marathon took runners through hilly terrain filled with challenging climbs, scenic peaks and ocean vistas. Starting in the town of Avalon, participants passed the historic Wrigley Mansion before ascending into the island’s interior, where they were rewarded with panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean. The course then wound downhill through the Wrigley Memorial before finishing back in town.
Konrad Mayer, resident of Long Beach, Calif., was the men’s half marathon champion and first-place finisher, completed the 13.1 miles in 1:28:14, followed by the men’s half marathon second-place finisher, Ben Collins. Nathan Scott took the third-place spot for the men’s half marathon. The women’s half marathon course was led by Oceanside, Calif. resident, Rachael Banton, who finished with a time of 1:51:46. Second and third-place finishers for the women’s half marathon were Briana Drago and Rosie Hext.
The 10K course began in Avalon, guiding runners past iconic landmarks such as the Casino building, Wrigley’s house and the golf course before looping back to finish by the town’s landmark fountain.
The men’s 10K division was led by Los Angeles, Calif. resident Carlos Vizcarra, who finished with a time of 40:13, followed by second and third-place finishers, Julio Aranda and Jacquille Vei. Jordan Dober of Monarch Beach, Calif. led the women’s division with a time of 46:09. Jennifer Dober and Elizabeth Krenz came in shortly after to claim second and third place in the women’s 10K.
“We love being able to showcase the beauty and spirit of Catalina Island through this event every year,” said Mike Bone, president and CEO of Spectrum Sports Management, producer of the Run Catalina Island series. “We’re grateful to our partners, volunteers and the Catalina Island community for helping us create a sustainable race that celebrates not only the island’s natural magic but also the achievements of our participants.”
The Catalina Island Half Marathon continued its emphasis on sustainability this year through eco-friendly initiatives such as providing sustainable clay medals and operating a cupless course in partnership with the Catalina Island Conservancy. As part of the Run Catalina Island Triple Crown Challenge, the race joined the Avalon 50K or 50 Mile and the Catalina Island Marathon, offering runners who completed all three events within 12 months exclusive Triple Crown finisher swag.
For more information on The Catalina Island Half Marathon, visit www.catalinaislandhalfmarathon.com. Follow the event on Instagram and Facebook.
ABOUT CATALINA ISLAND HALF MARATHON AND SPECTRUM SPORTS MANAGEMENT
Managed by Spectrum Sports Management, the Catalina Island Half Marathon provides the opportunity to run one of Southern California’s most popular natural attractions. A recognized leader in endurance and sporting events in Southern California, Spectrum Sports Management & Timing Services creates a wide range of events and has over 50 years of collective industry experience. Spectrum Sports Management emphasizes delivering a premiere, professional and world-class service to their clients, their participants and the communities in which they work. To learn more, visit www.SpectrumSports.net.