Over 8,000 marathoners expected to toe the start line in 2025, marking a 10% year-over-year increase
Almost 70% of marathon participants are first-timers at Rock ‘n’ Roll San Diego
Participation from Mexico soars, with nearly 78% YoY growth in registered participants
SAN DIEGO, Calif. (May 8, 2025) – As the start line countdown begins for the 2025 edition of the Rock ‘n’ Roll® Running Series San Diego, the event is already picking up speed with a powerful wave of new marathon participants. With over 8,000 runners expected to toe the start line in the marathon—a 10% increase over last year—the message is clear: marathons are back, and Rock ‘n’ Roll Running Series San Diego is the place to be.
This year’s marathon field features an exciting influx of newcomers, with nearly 70% of runners tackling the 26.2-mile distance for the first time at Rock ‘n’ Roll Running Series San Diego. From the iconic start line near Balboa Park to high-energy music and entertainment zones along the route, the race is primed to deliver an unforgettable experience for both seasoned athletes and first-time marathoners.
“This year, we’re seeing more first-timers than ever, which is exactly what this series is all about—welcoming new runners into the fold and showing them that running can be both a personal journey and a community celebration,” said Colleen McDonald, Race Director for Rock ‘n’ Roll Running Series San Diego. “Whether you’re chasing a PR or simply looking to finish your first 26.2, the community here embraces and celebrates every runner. We always encourage runners, especially first-timers, to find support through local run clubs—longtime partners like San Diego Track Club are a great resource to train, connect, and stay motivated.”
Participants are traveling from across the U.S. and beyond, including a growing number from Mexico, where registration has surged nearly 78% year-over-year. The growth highlights San Diego’s standing as both a premier race destination and a weekend-long celebration of endurance, music, and community spirit.
Marathoners can look forward to signature course moments, including the chance to ring the “163 Highway to Hill” bell after conquering the steep climb at mile 22, along with on-course bands, cheer teams, and an energetic San Diego crowd cheering them through eight vibrant neighborhoods.
More than 40 Legacy Runners will take on 26.2 miles for the 27th time this year, continuing a tradition that began with the inaugural Rock ‘n’ Roll San Diego Marathon in 1998—the race that launched a global movement to make running fun, accessible, and full of entertainment.
Online registration for the 2025 Rock ‘n’ Roll San Diego events is open through Sunday, May 25, and will reopen onsite at the Health & Fitness Expo, May 30–31, at the San Diego Convention Center, pending availability. Runners can lock in their spot and join the celebration at www.runrocknroll.com/san-diego.
For more information about the 2025 Rock ‘n’ Roll® Running Series San Diego, visit www.runrocknroll.com/san-diego.
About Rock ‘n’ Roll Running Series
Established in 1998, the Rock ‘n’ Roll® Running Series’ simple idea of making running fun has transformed both the U.S. and global running landscape by infusing the course with live bands, cheer teams, and entertaining water stations, creating a block-party atmosphere for participants and spectators alike. Focused on running, music and community, race weekends kick off with a free Health & Fitness Expo showcasing the latest in running gear, sports apparel, health and nutritional information and much more. Events culminate with an Encore Entertainment experience featuring eclectic musical artists from a variety of genres. Further information about the Rock ‘n’ Roll Running Series can be found online at www.RunRocknRoll.com and follow @RunRocknRoll on all social platforms.