EL PASO, Texas (KFOX14\/CBS4) \u2014 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. <\/p>\n
Each runner shared why they wanted to complete the challenge. <\/p>\n
“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.”<\/p>\n
Whether it was the full 26.2 miles or just 13.1, runners prepared for months to complete the marathon in one piece. <\/p>\n
“I usually run three or four times a week,” Christian, who was running his fourth half-marathon, said. “Consistency is the key.” <\/p>\n
At 7:00 a.m., the horn sounded for the marathon runners, and 20 minutes later, the half-marathon runners were off. <\/p>\n
On every street corner along the course, spectators cheered on family, friends and strangers. <\/p>\n
There were plenty of characters running the various races, keeping the vibes positive.<\/p>\n
Run 13.1 miles with Chas Messman at the El Paso Marthon<\/p>\n
RECOMMENDED: Eastlake and Chapin claim Bi-District Titles<\/a><\/p>\n Speaking of staying positive and inspiring smiles, two friends, Jason Solley and Luis Aguirre, ran the half-marathon dressed as the Flintstones. <\/p>\n “We always run together and try to match wearing a costume together,” Aguirre said. <\/p>\n The pair have previously run dressed up in various costumes, including the Ghostbusters in 2025. <\/p>\n “We try to find one that works well with running,” Solley said. “This one worked really well.”<\/p>\n The grueling course concluded right in the heart of Downtown El Paso– the feeling of crossing that finish line is unmatched. <\/p>\n “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.” <\/p>\n “When you see that finish line, you feel hope,” marathon runner Luis said.<\/p>\n 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. <\/p>\n RECOMMENDED: Battle of I-10 Rematch Carries Major CUSA Tournament Implications<\/a><\/p>\n