Bakersfield Marathon Overcomes Rain with New Features

The 2025 Bakersfield Marathon, held on Sunday, drew over four thousand participants competing in various events, including the full marathon, half marathon, 10K, and 6K, despite weather challenges. James Lopez, a 20-year-old from the San Fernando Valley, emerged victorious in the half marathon after months of dedicated training. The marathon, a significant community event, required extensive preparation, including distributing 200 gallons of water and setting up safety measures like trucks to block off roads. The event not only highlighted athletic prowess but also showcased the strong community support and the determination of participants. The marathon also introduced a new T-shirt design and medals, further cementing its role as a celebrated local tradition. The race did experience a delay due to rain, but spirits remained high as participants overcame various challenges on the course.