Record-Breaking Turnout at Life Time Miami Marathon: Nearly 18,500 Athletes Converge from Around the Globe

The 23rd edition of Life Time Miami Marathon & Half presented by FP Movement concluded with a remarkable showing as the completely booked event welcomed nearly 18,500 competitors representing 48 states and 75 countries. The diverse international field and sold-out capacity underscored the race’s growing reputation as a premier running destination.

Elite Performers Share Stories of Dedication

Kenyan runner Paul Eyanae claimed the men’s marathon title, crossing the finish line in 2:20:00—a commanding margin over second-place Bradley Makuvire of Texas (2:22:42) and third-place Abraham Kipkemei of Minnesota (2:24:25). Upon completing his first U.S. marathon victory, Eyanae made an emotional call to his family back home, where his wife and children manage their tea and coffee farm, enabling his competitive pursuits across the globe.

The women’s marathon crown went to Beth Marzigliano of Naples, Florida, who navigated the demanding 26.2-mile course while juggling responsibilities as a mother of three. Her 3:03:02 finish was particularly special as she later watched her children compete in the Kids Mile, a component of Life Time Kids Run Miami—the organization’s youth wellness initiative.

Half marathon honors saw Solomon Kagimbi, himself a Kenyan farmer’s son, secure the men’s division for the second consecutive year at 1:04:27, establishing himself as Miami’s first repeat winner in the category. His performance surpassed runner-up Paxon Smith of Miami by three minutes. Meanwhile, Boulder, Colorado’s Nell Rojas equaled the women’s half marathon course record at 1:13:53 on her inaugural Miami half marathon attempt, matching the 2016 standard set by Santa Ines Meichor.

A Race for All Levels

Beyond the elite podium finishers, the event attracted an expansive participant base ranging from 14-year-old debuts to an 88-year-old competitor. Miami’s iconic street course hosted these thousands of runners amid ideal conditions, with temperatures ranging from 72 degrees at the morning start to 78 degrees as participants completed the course.

“The Life Time Miami Marathon & Half transcends simply reaching the finish line,” explained Samantha Bailey, Senior Marketing Manager at Life Time. “It represents the vibrant energy of the city, the collective power of community engagement, and thousands of determined athletes worldwide pursuing their ‘Miami Famous’ moment.”

Looking Forward

Life Time, which owns and produces nearly 30 major athletic events nationally—including the Chicago Half Marathon, UNBOUND Gravel, and the Leadville Race Series—has established Life Time Miami Marathon as a marquee offering. The fourth consecutive sell-out demonstrates sustained momentum, with organizers already preparing for the 2026 edition as Miami solidifies its standing as a premier global running destination.