The 48th annual Hi-Tec Catalina Island Marathon has sold out its marathon field ahead of the event on March 14, 2026. Organised by Spectrum Sports Management, the race is California’s oldest trail marathon and forms part of the Run Catalina Race Series.
The sell-out follows the Avalon Benefit 50 Mile/50K Run, which also reached capacity earlier this year on January 10, 2026. According to the event organising team, these back-to-back sell-outs mark a historical moment for the series, establishing Catalina Island, CA, as a primary trail running destination in the US.
While the marathon is full, registration for the 10K, 5K and Kids Run remains open but is filling up fast.
Participants in the marathon will travel through trails on the island, starting in Two Harbors and finishing in Avalon. The 10K and 5K courses also start and finish in Avalon, taking runners through historic areas and various viewpoints.
Mike Bone President and CEO of Spectrum Sports Management said “Our goal for the Catalina Island Marathon has always been to provide a one-of-a-kind experience for trail runners of all levels to experience the natural wonders of Catalina Island. To see the marathon field not only sell out, but to sell out this early is truly a testament to the quality and uniqueness of this event.
“From the business side, we’ve witnessed the increase in trail running interest over the past few years, and we look forward to welcoming both returning and new faces to the island this March to see why Catalina Island is the place to run.”
The event is a constituent of the Run Catalina Triple Crown Challenge. To complete the challenge, athletes must finish three events within a 12-month period: the Avalon 50K or 50 Mile, the Hi-Tec Catalina Island Marathon and the Catalina Island Half Marathon. Finishers of the Triple Crown receive a jacket, Hi-Tec shoes and a belt buckle.
The 2026 event will benefit the Catalina Island Conservancy and the Avalon Lions Club. The latter is a non-profit organisation that supports local causes, including providing scholarships for graduating students from Avalon High School.
The marathon is also noted for its sustainability initiatives. Following an evaluation at the 2024 event, the Council of Responsible Sport awarded the race a Silver Certificate. This is granted to organisations that achieve 60% or more of the best practices for responsible sport.
Environmental efforts include making the event a cupless race, using bungee cords instead of zip ties, and requiring participants to sign a ‘leave no trace behind’ pledge. Additionally, the event medals are designed by a local artist using sustainable materials.
US-based Spectrum Sports Management is the production house behind the series, specialising in event management and sports marketing.
www.catalinaislandmarathon.com
