YOUR GOLDEN STATE CHALLENGE UPDATE

May 21
2 min read

Whether you've already crossed a finish line this season or you're gearing up for your next race in the series, 2026 is shaping up to be another amazing year!

Nine races, one unforgettable challenge across the Golden State.

Surf City Marathon: A Legendary 30th Edition

The 2026 GSC race season kicked off with the 30th edition of the Surf City Marathon and it did not disappoint. With over 21,000 registered runners taking on the marathon, half marathon, and 5K, this milestone edition was nothing short of historic.

What made this year truly special was the scale of the community that showed up. Runners representing 47 states and 18 countries lined up at the start, bringing a global energy to the Huntington Beach coastline. From first-timers to seasoned veterans, the 30th edition was a celebration of everything that makes running great, community, competition, and the open road.

Next up on the GSC calendar is the Santa Barbara Wine Country Half Marathon:

This year brings an exciting new addition to the event. For the first time, runners will be able to take on a brand new 5K course, expanding the race experience and opening the door to even more participants across the GSC series.

The addition of the 5K is a significant milestone for the series. It means more runners, more energy, and more opportunities to earn GSC points, making Santa Barbara Wine Country a must-do event for competitors at every level.

Both the half marathon and relay are selling fast, the 5k is already sold out.. If you haven't registered yet, now is the time.

Santa Cruz Marathon: New to the GSC Series

We are thrilled to welcome the Santa Cruz Marathon to the GSC race series. Offering the full marathon, half marathon, and 5K, Santa Cruz brings a stunning new course to the lineup coastal views, challenging terrain, and the legendary Northern California running scene.

In a testament to just how much excitement surrounds this new addition, the full marathon is already SOLD OUT. That's a remarkable achievement for a debut event and a sign of things to come for the Santa Cruz Marathon as a fixture on the GSC calendar.

Half marathon and 5K spots are still available but with the momentum this race has already built, we wouldn't wait too long.