Rubén Rocha and Juan de Dios Gámez Kick Off the 35th International Culiacán Marathon with a 35% Increase in Participants

Web Editor

January 18, 2026

a group of people standing under a red sign at a marathon event with a crowd of people watching them

Background and Relevance

The 35th International Culiacán Marathon took place on Sunday, a significant sporting event in northwestern Mexico. The marathon saw an impressive 35% increase in participants compared to the previous year, with around 4,000 local, national, and international runners taking part.

Key Figures

The event’s starting ceremony was graced by Rubén Rocha Moya, the governor of Sinaloa, and Juan de Dios Gámez Mendívil, the mayor of Culiacán. Their presence underscores the importance of this annual event in the region.

Event Details

  • The marathon featured various races: 5 km, 10 km, 21 km, and the full 42 km.
  • Participants ran in both female and male categories, fostering a family-friendly atmosphere.
  • The event witnessed a 35% surge in participants compared to the previous year, with additional runners joining without assigned numbers.

Mayor Juan de Dios Gámez’s Perspective

Mayor Juan de Dios Gámez emphasized the social and cultural significance of the marathon, highlighting how such events promote family bonding and strengthen collective identity.

“In the context of these events that allow us to come with our families, we see very valuable expressions: children running 5 km, parents and parents participating in the half-marathon, as well as people visiting from other states and countries. All this helps us consolidate as a society and celebrate this already traditional Culiacán Marathon 2026.”

Gámez also acknowledged the University of Sinaloa’s support, describing it as a historical ally in organizing the marathon alongside the state government, Culiacán’s municipal government, and the event organizing committee.

Award Ceremony

The awards ceremony is scheduled for midday, where official results of various categories will be announced, and winners in the different races will receive their prizes.

Key Questions and Answers

  • Who participated in the marathon? Millions of female and male runners, both local and international, participated in the event.
  • What was the increase in participants compared to 2025? There was a 35% rise in participants this year compared to the previous edition.
  • Who were the key figures present at the starting ceremony? Governor Rubén Rocha Moya and Mayor Juan de Dios Gámez were present.
  • What did Mayor Juan de Dios Gámez highlight about the marathon? He emphasized its social and cultural importance, promoting family bonding and strengthening collective identity.
  • Who supported the marathon organization? The University of Sinaloa, along with the state government, Culiacán’s municipal government, and the event organizing committee.