Playa del Carmen, Quintana Roo — The RUN 2026: Race for Social Justice will take place on July 12, 2026, combining physical activity, family fun, and support for animal welfare. The event, organized by the RUN 2026 Committee in coordination with the Legal Counsel of the Government of Quintana Roo and the Playa del Carmen City Council, offers free registration and is open to athletes, students, civil associations, professionals, and the general public.
In addition to promoting healthy habits, the race aims to collect in-kind donations for the Center for Animal Control, Assistance, and Zoonoses (CENCAAZ), strengthening protection and care efforts for dogs and cats sheltered by this municipal institution.
Race Details
The race will start at 6:00 a.m. on Sunday, July 12, 2026, from the Mario Villanueva Madrid Sports Complex, one of the main sports venues in Playa del Carmen. Organizers recommend arriving at least 30 minutes early for warm-up exercises and registration. For safety, the maximum time to complete the 5K route is 50 minutes, during which partial road closures will be in effect.
Routes
The RUN 2026 features two recreational distances:
- 3K route: Starts at the sports complex, goes along 10th Avenue North, crosses Fifth Avenue, and returns via 34th Street North to the finish line.
- 5K route: Follows 10th Avenue North and a longer section of Fifth Avenue to the vicinity of Fundadores Park and the Portal Maya, then returns to the start.
The event is recreational and community-oriented, with no cash prizes for winners.
Registration
Free registration is open until July 9, 2026, or until spots fill up. Participants can sign up via the online form at https://forms.gle/Avkg5TjgFZXTSK129. The minimum age is 15; participants aged 15–17 must present a signed parental consent form.
Commemorative Shirts
The first 1,500 registered participants who complete accreditation will receive an official event T-shirt. Shirt pickup is on Saturday, July 11, from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the Mario Villanueva Madrid Sports Complex offices, or on race day at the starting area (subject to size availability). Participants must present their registration folio and a valid ID.
Supporting CENCAAZ
A key goal of the race is to benefit the CENCAAZ animal shelter. Participants can make voluntary in-kind donations, including dog and cat food, wet pet food, bleach and disinfectants, waste bags, leashes and collars, pet beds and blankets, carriers, and veterinary supplies. All items must be new, sealed, and within their expiration date.
The RUN 2026 aims to become one of the summer’s most impactful community sports events in the Riviera Maya, combining exercise, social gathering, and support for sheltered animals.
