The Run Catalina Race Series marks history as its first two events of 2026 sell out
AVALON, Calif. – The 48th annual Hi-Tec Catalina Island Marathon, California’s oldest trail marathon, has sold out its marathon field ahead of its event on March 14. The sell-out race is a part of the Run Catalina Race Series, and follows the also sold-out Avalon Benefit 50 Mile/50K Run that took place earlier this year on Jan. 10. The back-to-back sell outs mark a historical moment for the race series, and solidifies Catalina Island as being a true trail running destination in the U.S. Registration for the 10K, 5K and Kids Run remains open but is filling up fast.
Participants of the sold-out marathon will journey through the scenic trails of Catalina Island, starting in Two Harbors and finishing in Avalon. The vistas and challenging climbs have been enjoyed by thousands of runners for nearly five centuries. The 10K and 5K courses will start and finish in Avalon, and take participants on a journey through historic areas and scenic viewpoints on the island.
“Our goal for the Catalina Island Marathon has always been to provide a one-of-a-kind experience for trail runners of all levels to experience the natural wonders of Catalina Island. To see the marathon field not only sell out, but to sell out this early is truly a testament to the quality and uniqueness of this event,” said Mike Bone, President and CEO of Spectrum Sports Management, producer of the Hi-Tec Catalina Island Marathon. “From the business side, we’ve witnessed the increase in trail running interest over the past few years, and we look forward to welcoming both returning and new faces to the island this March to see why Catalina Island is the place to run.”
The Hi-Tec Catalina Island Marathon is a part of Run Catalina’s Triple Crown Challenge. The challenge involves completing all three Run Catalina events within a 12-month period. This includes the Avalon 50K or 50 Mile, Hi-Tec Catalina Island Marathon and Catalina Island Half Marathon. Runners may begin their Catalina Island Triple Crown journey with any one of these races, but all specified distances must be completed within a 12-month period, meaning they must finish all three races consecutively once they begin. Athletes who complete the challenge receive a Triple Crown finisher jacket, Hi-Tec shoes and a one-of-a-kind belt buckle.
This year’s event will also be benefiting the Catalina Island Conservancy and Avalon Lions Club, which supports numerous local causes and non-profit organizations. Each year, the Avalon Lions guarantee a scholarship to all graduating students from Avalon High School who wish to continue their education.
The Hi-Tec Catalina Island Marathon is also recognized as an industry leader in sustainability efforts. At their 2024 event, the Council of Responsible Sport attended the race to evaluate their sustainability efforts. Some of these continued efforts included partnering with sustainability-focused vendors and ensuring vendors don’t use packing peanuts or plastic, making the event a cupless race, using bungee cords over zip ties and having participants sign a “leave no trace behind” pledge. After their evaluation, the Council of Responsible Sport awarded the Silver Certificate to the Catalina Island Marathon, which is awarded to events and organizations that have achieved 60% or more of the total best practices promoted in the standards for responsible sport. The race also historically partners with a local artist on the island to design and craft their medals, made of sustainable materials that feature Catalina Island landmarks to highlight the island’s natural and wild beauty.
For more information on The Catalina Island Marathon, visit www.catalinaislandmarathon.com. Follow the event on Instagram and Facebook.
ABOUT THE HI-TEC CATALINA ISLAND MARATHON AND SPECTRUM SPORTS MANAGEMENT
Managed by Spectrum Sports Management, the Hi-Tec Catalina Island Marathon provides the opportunity to run one of Southern California’s most popular natural attractions, and participate in California’s oldest trail marathon. 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.