Rock and Roll Marathon San Diego Draws Record Crowds, Prompts New Route Safety Measures
SAN DIEGO, CALIFORNIA – The annual Rock and Roll Marathon San Diego took place this past Sunday, drawing an estimated 25,000 participants and setting a new attendance record for the event. The 26.2-mile course, known for its scenic coastal route and live music stages, saw runners from over 40 countries compete under clear skies. Organizers confirmed the event proceeded without major incidents, though a notable shift occurred this year: an expanded medical support team and altered street closures implemented in response to a heat advisory issued by the National Weather Service. The race, which began at 6:15 a.m. PST near Balboa Park, concluded with winners from Kenya and the United States crossing the finish line in under two hours and fifteen minutes. Local officials praised the logistical adjustments, noting these changes will inform planning for future iterations of the marathon. The event, a staple of San Diego’s tourism calendar since its inception in 1998, generated an estimated $45 million in economic impact for the region, according to the San Diego Tourism Authority.