While “Eye of the Tiger” by Survivor blasted on the speakers outside the Eastside Sports Complex on a fresh Sunday morning, racers eagerly took their positions at the start line in anticipation of the Michelob Ultra El Paso Marathon.
Three…two…one…*honk! Runners took their first strides, beginning their 26.29-mile trek to San Jacinto Plaza.
The El Paso Marathon traces its roots back to its first race in 2007 and includes the Spine & Rehab Specialists 5K and the Raiz Federal Credit Union Half Marathon, with the full marathon acting as a qualifier for both the 2026 Boston and 2025 Abbott Age Group Championship marathons.
Participation in El Paso’s marathon scene continues to grow with a record number of participants this year. According to the El Paso Times, Feb. 23, saw 560 marathoners, 1,995 runners for the half marathon, and 2,129 5K run/walk participants, but aside from the record-breaking number of runners, this event goes beyond the sport.
The El Paso Marathon day left a lasting impression and brought people together, providing opportunities for individuals to challenge themselves and push their limits for personal achievement. Yujen Martinez, 41, and first-time marathon runner, has used running as a part of his journey to better his health.
“I started last year on a journey of running and health, and the [Spine & Rehab Specialists 5K] was one of the first races I did. So, I told myself, ‘Alright, I’m going to do that marathon,’” Martinez said. “It feels good, [it’s] something to be proud of. A year ago, running three miles was pretty difficult…but it feels really good.”
While participants are faced with the physical challenge of the run, they’re not doing it alone. Many spectators lined the sidewalks to cheer, hold up signs and offer words of encouragement, playing a special role in the marathon experience. With a sign that said, “Pain is temporary, but your strava post is forever,” UTEP student Pamela Escobar stood post with some friends near the finish line in San Jacinto Plaza to cheer on her classmate who was running to the finish.
“I just show her that we care and that we support her, [and] that she’s doing great,” Escobar said. “Even if they’re not your friends, just [cheer] for strangers. It’s really nice, you can feel the good vibes.”
She had previously attended the El Paso marathon day to run the half marathon, but this year was in attendance from the sidelines to spread some positive cheer to the runners.
Second time half marathoner 28-year-old Viviana Villarreal said the encouragement from her loved ones was crucial when tackling the hilly course midway through her run.
“Luckily my family was able to make it out–I got to see them twice. Having that family and friend support just carries you through,” Villareal said.
Villareal ran her first half marathon back in 2016 when she was attending college in Austin, Texas, making the Raiz Federal Credit Union Half Marathon her first half marathon in her hometown.
“I think it’s just more special. I was born and raised here, so there’s nothing like running a race in your hometown,” Villareal said. “El Paso [has] always been very family oriented, so just having that family support and even your friend support that turn into family, that’s really nice.”
As the finishers crossed the finish line and got awarded their medals, they rushed to embrace their loved ones who were waiting on the other end. Their victories were made even sweeter by the support that carried them through.
Although these races acted as a test of endurance, they were also a reminder of the strength found in the community, offering participants from Ciudad Juárez, Mexico, New York, and even as far as St. John’s, Canada, a home away from home. The cheers, support of loved ones and strangers, and the shared sense of accomplishment made a lasting impression on many El Pasoans and visitors alike.
Evelyn Palma is the web and copy editor for The Prospector and may be reached at [email protected] and on Instagram @evelynp.media.
