EL PASO, Texas (KFOX14/CBS4) — On Sunday, the El Paso Marathon brought together over 6,000 runners from 48 states and nine different countries to compete in three different races: the Marathon, half marathon, and 5K.

Each runner shared why they wanted to complete the challenge.

“I’ve lost 100 pounds in the past three years,” marathon runner Pablo Rodriguez said. “I wanted a new challenge for myself. I also have a nine-year-old son. I wanted to show him that his dad can do anything, so he can grow up and do anything in life.”

Whether it was the full 26.2 miles or just 13.1, runners prepared for months to complete the marathon in one piece.

“I usually run three or four times a week,” Christian, who was running his fourth half-marathon, said. “Consistency is the key.”

At 7:00 a.m., the horn sounded for the marathon runners, and 20 minutes later, the half-marathon runners were off.

On every street corner along the course, spectators cheered on family, friends and strangers.

There were plenty of characters running the various races, keeping the vibes positive.

Run 13.1 miles with Chas Messman at the El Paso Marthon

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Speaking of staying positive and inspiring smiles, two friends, Jason Solley and Luis Aguirre, ran the half-marathon dressed as the Flintstones.

“We always run together and try to match wearing a costume together,” Aguirre said.

The pair have previously run dressed up in various costumes, including the Ghostbusters in 2025.

“We try to find one that works well with running,” Solley said. “This one worked really well.”

The grueling course concluded right in the heart of Downtown El Paso– the feeling of crossing that finish line is unmatched.

“It feels amazing,” half-marathon runner Stephanie Paglinawan said. “The last 100 yards, I felt like throwing up. I just tried to zoom past it as fast as I could.”

“When you see that finish line, you feel hope,” marathon runner Luis said.

The winners of the 2026 El Paso Marathon were Luis Rivera Rodriguez, who crossed the finish line at 2:35:59, and on the women’s side, Caittie Britton at 3:16:53.

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