Runners will have the opportunity to cross the U.S.-Mexico border on foot during the 2026 Binational Race San Diego-Tijuana, scheduled for October 25. Organizers expect at least 5,000 participants for the event, which will combine a cross-border athletic challenge with fundraising for three charitable organizations.
The race will support Fundación Castro Limón in Tijuana, along with Casa Familiar and Fundación Emilio Nares in San Diego County. Participants and other supporters can donate to any of the three organizations through the event’s registration website.
Three Race Distances, One Cross-Border Route
The event offers a half marathon of 21.1 kilometers, a 12K and a 10K, with 13 categories for participants ages 13 to 75.
The half marathon will start at the western end of Las Americas Premium Outlets in California. Runners will follow Camino de la Plaza and Dairy Mart Road before entering Mexico near the five-kilometer mark. Around kilometer 10, they will cross through the San Ysidro–El Chaparral border crossing and continue toward Playas de Tijuana, where the race will finish.
The 12K will also begin in California, while the 10K will start at the bridge on Boulevard Sánchez Taboada in Tijuana. Both routes are designed to showcase urban scenery and the city’s coastal surroundings.
How to Support the Participating Charities
Donations are voluntary and go directly to the organization selected by each contributor. Also, supporters can contribute even if they do not register for one of the races.
To donate, visit the official event website and follow these steps:
- Go to binationalrace.com.
- Select Register Now to access the registration platform.
- Find Donate Now in the right-hand column.
- Choose the organization you want to support and make your contribution.
Race Expo and Finish-Line Festival
Beyond the races, the event will feature a runner expo, sponsor activations and a finish-line festival in Playas de Tijuana. The gathering will give runners, families and visitors a place to celebrate after the competition.
Baja California’s Tourism Secretariat will also set up an information and promotional space highlighting the state’s seven tourism destinations.
Tourism Secretary Miguel Ángel Badiola Montaño said the race reflects the cooperation between communities in the Cali-Baja region, where economic and tourism ties extend across the international border.
Visitors planning to stay longer can also explore travel guides and itineraries at bajacalifornia.travel.
