San Diego came alive on Sunday, August 17, as more than 4,600 runners laced up for the 48th annual America’s Finest City Half Marathon & 5K. From the sunrise start at Cabrillo National Monument to the energetic Finish Line Festival in Balboa Park, the day was a celebration of community, endurance, and, as always, our beautiful San Diego.
This year’s event was truly international. Runners traveled from 13 countries, with the farthest participants joining us all the way from New Zealand. Nearly 150 running groups came together to take on the challenge, filling the course with camaraderie, encouragement, and team pride.
Celebrating Our Champions
Local runner Steven Martinez claimed the men’s half marathon title with a time of 1:05:00, with Xavier Smith and Zane Chalker rounding out the podium. On the women’s side, Hannah Chau led the way in 1:17:26, followed by Jori Galles and Tyler Beling. In the non-binary division, Reese Russel topped the field in 1:50:07.
In the 5K, William Boag (17:03) and Evie Spengler (20:12) captured the men’s and women’s titles, while J Martinez earned the top spot in the non-binary division.
Gratitude for Our Community
This race would not be possible without the many hands and hearts behind it.
To our runners, who brought energy and dedication to every mile—thank you for making AFC what it is.
To our incredible volunteers and staff, whose hard work ensures a safe and memorable experience—we are deeply grateful.
To the Cabrillo National Monument Foundation, thank you for hosting the breathtaking half marathon start line and supporting our shared mission of conservation.
And to everyone who made an extra donation to the Cabrillo National Monument Foundation during registration—your generosity helps preserve one of San Diego’s most iconic landmarks for generations to come.
More Than a Race
Race weekend kicked off with the Expo/Packet Pickup Event, where participants stocked up on gear, made memories at photo ops, and met fellow runners. On race day, the Finish Line Festival in Balboa Park brought the celebration to life with a DJ, vendors, finisher snacks, and the Beer Garden!
As part of the San Diego Foundation SoCal Triple Crown series, AFC continues a proud tradition alongside the Carlsbad Marathon, Half Marathon & 5K and the GOVX San Diego Half Marathon & 5K. Runners who complete all three races in the same calendar year earn the coveted SoCal Triple Crown medal.
Looking Ahead
The journey doesn’t stop here—registration is already open for the first race of the 2026 series, the Carlsbad Marathon, Half Marathon & 5K on Sunday, January 18.
Be sure to check out our Instagram or Facebook for exclusive race day reels, photos, and future race updates!
From all of us at In Motion Events: THANK YOU for being part of AFC this year. Whether you raced, volunteered, cheered, or gave back, you helped make the 48th annual America’s Finest City Half Marathon & 5K one to remember.