Nearly 1,500 athletes compete in 2026 Zuma Beach Triathlon

Nearly 1,500 athletes of all levels and abilities competed in the Zuma Beach Triathlon Sept. 19-20. Racers swam off Zuma Beach, biked the Malibu coastline and ran to the cliffs of Point Dume.The field included first-time triathletes, veteran racers and adaptive athletes using racing chairs, hand cycles and running blades. Cheers, music and cowbells greeted finishers throughout the weekend."While we do create a stage for elite athleticism, what folks will remember about the day is watching athletes of all abilities, shapes, sizes and experience levels challenge themselves to overcome and achieve their goals," said Michael Epstein, the event's founder and executive director. "This event will always be a welcoming one, dedicated to cultivating a community of inclusion and giving."The Challenged Athletes Foundation Corporate Challenge, presented by Pepperdine University, raised more than $155,000. Epstein created the original triathlon corporate challenge in Malibu in 1997. It has since raised more than $20 million for several causes.The Zuma Foundation Triathlon For Kids, presented by the Boys & Girls Club of Malibu, was open to children ages 9 to 14. Racers ages 9 to 11 completed a 100-yard swim, 3-mile bike ride and half-mile run. Those ages 12 to 14 completed a 200-yard swim, 6-mile ride and 1-mile run.The triathlon presented a $55,000 check to the Boys & Girls Club of Malibu. The local nonprofit mentors children and gives them tools to become productive, contributing citizens.First-place finishers included:James Lubinski, Olympic Distance men's divisionReesa Zagnoli, Olympic Distance women's divisionAlex Goodman, Zuma Distance men's divisionGrace Wagener, Zuma Distance women's divisionWillie Stewart, Challenged Athlete divisionDylan Efron, individual celebrity men's divisionNikki Kay, individual celebrity women's divisionTeam 5 Star, celebrity relay division, featuring actor David Denman, retired professional cyclist Dave Zabriskie and elite runner Emily GallinMore information is available at www.zumabeachtriathlon.org and on the event's Facebook and Instagram pages.Edited by SMDP Staff