Epic Comeback: Zuma Beach Triathlon Returns With New Partners and Causes

Let's rewind a bit to understand the saga behind this announcement. The Malibu Triathlon, a beloved local event, was originally sold by its founder, Michael Epstein, to Motiv Sports in 2017, who then passed the baton to Super League Triathlon in 2020. However, the plot thickened in 2023 when the City of Malibu decided to reassess who would hold the prestigious permit to organize the city’s sole annual triathlon and running race. This unexpected twist put Super League in a tight spot as they found themselves vying for a permit for an event they thought they already owned. Fast forward to a decisive moment last January when the Road Race Ad Hoc Committee awarded the permit back to the Zuma Foundation, with Epstein at the helm as Executive Director.

The journey to this point was anything but smooth. The Zuma Foundation had to cancel last year's race due to ongoing construction and infrastructure challenges on the Pacific Coast Highway. This led to a reopening of the permit bidding process by the Malibu City Council. Despite these hurdles, the Zuma Foundation emerged victorious once again, bringing several enhancements to their proposal, including increased annual donations, shared production responsibilities with the Boys and Girls Club of Malibu, and the addition of a Triathlon Safety Committee.

The newly christened Zuma Beach Triathlon promises to be more than just a race. It's a community event with a cause, deeply woven into the fabric of Malibu. The triathlon will kick off with a special Triathlon for Kids, followed by both Zuma Distance and Olympic Distance Triathlons. In a touching response to recent adversities, the Boys & Girls Club of Malibu will also spearhead a fundraising initiative to support families affected by the devastating Los Angeles wildfires, with the Zuma Foundation matching athlete donations up to $10,000.

Bob Babbitt, co-founder of the Challenged Athletes Foundation, expressed his enthusiasm about the partnership, noting that triathlon has been at the core of CAF since its inception 32 years ago. This collaboration marks a significant milestone, aligning with their mission to empower athletes of all abilities.

As registration gears up to open in February, the anticipation is palpable. This event is not just a race; it's a beacon of resilience, community support, and athletic spirit. Whether you're a seasoned triathlete or a newcomer to the sport, the Zuma Beach Triathlon offers a unique opportunity to challenge yourself and contribute to meaningful causes. Stay tuned for more updates and get ready to mark your calendars for an unforgettable experience on the scenic shores of Malibu.