Mexico's Arely Reyes captured her first major 10K victory Sunday at the 20th running of the Santa Monica Classic, leading an international field of nearly 7,500 runners along the scenic California coastline.
Reyes won the women's 10K in 38:00, finishing 40 seconds ahead of Portland's Emily Van Orman in the sold-out event that drew participants from 31 states and 14 countries. The Mexico native had originally traveled to Southern California to visit Universal Studios but decided to extend her trip to compete in the anniversary race.
"There was a lot of good motivation," Reyes said after her victory. "A lot of good people and a lot of good weather. I want to keep running, and I'm going to come back next year."
Andre-Diangelo Galdamez of Rancho Cucamonga claimed the men's 10K title in 34:26, finishing 31 seconds ahead of runner-up Emiliano Rodriguez. For Galdamez, the victory marked a personal milestone in his home region.
"This is my first city race win," Galdamez said. "Honestly, this is a surreal experience. This is a city I love... I always said I want to win a city race."
The milestone 20th edition of the race showcased the event's growth from its humble beginnings into one of Southern California's premier road races. Ocean breezes and palm-lined streets provided the backdrop as runners tackled courses along Santa Monica's oceanfront.
"The course is fun and fast. And nothing beats running by the beach," said Van Orman, who finished second in the women's 10K. "There are palm trees everywhere. We're running by the ocean. What's not to love?"
Beyond the competition, the race served as a fundraising platform for neurological disease research. More than 200 Team TMF participants raised over $50,000 to support The McCourt Foundation's mission to cure neurological diseases and build healthier communities.
The foundation, which has donated more than $6.7 million to neurology research since its inception, uses events like the Santa Monica Classic to generate funds for over 105 nonprofit charity partners. Since its establishment in 1992, the organization has helped generate more than $72 million for various causes.
In the 5K races, Newbury Park's Maggie Shearer won the women's division in 18:13, while Marquis Bowden of Long Beach captured the men's title in 16:02. Shearer, 47, was competing in her first Santa Monica Classic and praised the event's atmosphere.
"Every race I get to the line healthy, I'm appreciative," said Shearer, who has battled injuries in recent years. "Getting to a race with other masters women who are fast and fun, it's a great experience."
The international flavor extended throughout the field, with Arizona's Leah Rosenfeld finishing third in the women's 10K after training at 7,000 feet elevation in Flagstaff.
"When you train at 7,000 feet, running along the ocean is a treat," Rosenfeld said. "The course is beautiful, super fast, and super flat. Just a lot of fun."
Local participation remained strong, with Santa Monica resident Ingrid Walters finishing third in the women's 5K. Walters, who lives just two miles from the start line, emphasized the community support that makes the race special.
"I live so close that I have to run it," Walters said. "This is what I miss about racing, especially in Santa Monica. You get so much crowd support. It's always a fun race."
The event also featured the Kids Run presented by Circle K, allowing children ages 3-8 to experience crossing the same finish line as adult competitors while earning their own medals.
Race organizers announced that the 21st Santa Monica Classic will take place Sunday, Sept. 13, 2026. Complete results and additional information are available at mccourtfoundation.org.
The McCourt Foundation operates with offices in Boston and Los Angeles, continuing its mission to advance neurological research while building healthier communities through athletic events and educational initiatives.