Movement, Community, and Halloween Spirit
Thousands celebrate resilience and inclusion at Malibu’s only running and walking festival benefiting local schools and fire relief efforts
Malibu, CA – October 27, 2025 – With the Pacific Ocean as its backdrop, the IPS Malibu Moves: Half Marathon, 10K, 5K, 1-Mile & Kids Run presented by UCLA Health welcomed more than 2,000 participants, families, and volunteers to a sold-out weekend at Zuma Beach. The two-day event was about much more than running or walking — it honored Malibu’s passion for movement, resilience, and community connection.
This year, Malibu Moves donated 100% of its net profits, totaling $83,650, to nonprofits driving Malibu’s recovery and resilience. The majority of funds will benefit the Malibu Education Foundation, the Emily Shane Foundation, and the Community Fire Brigade, with additional contributions directed to several volunteer-driven organizations that supported the event’s operations and community outreach.
“Malibu Moves was born from a simple idea—that movement has the power to heal and unite,” said Erica Segel, Founder and Race Director of Malibu Moves. “Seeing thousands of people come together in the name of wellness, inclusion, and community gives us hope that we’re not just rebuilding Malibu—we’re reimagining it stronger than ever.”
“Malibu Moves was born from a simple idea—that movement has the power to heal and unite.”
The weekend began on Saturday with the Zuma Dash and Kids Run, featuring face painting, a Kids Zone, and a Halloween costume contest that filled the beach with laughter and color. On Sunday, the Half Marathon, 10K, and 5K transformed the Pacific Coast Highway into one of California’s most scenic racecourses, lined with ocean views, enthusiastic volunteers, and festive spectators.
While the event drew participants from across California, nearly 150 Malibu residents joined the start line—making them the second-largest group after Los Angeles.
Mayor Marianne Riggins led by example, completing the Coastal Quest Challenge by running both the 1-Mile Zuma Dash and the 5K.
Local resident Patrick Renner claimed second overall in the Half Marathon (1:17:12), and 14-year-old Atticus, one of Malibu’s youngest finishers, placed eighth overall, 4th in the male division and 1st in his age group in the 5K (21:01) while also conquering the Coastal Quest Challenge.
Among the standout participants was Baywatch actor and Malibu resident David Chokachi, who completed the 5K while carrying a 45-pound ruck plate. The physical challenge is part of Chokachi’s entry test to join the Community Fire Brigade, one of Malibu Moves’ charity partners. His participation reflected the spirit of service, preparedness, and community that the event was built to honor.
“I am honored to take part in Malibu Moves and to support the Community Fire Brigade’s mission of protecting our city,” said Chokachi. “Carrying the weighted ruck through the 5K symbolizes the strength and readiness our community shows every day. Malibu has been through so much, and seeing everyone come together with such determination and heart reminds us what resilience truly looks like.”
Adding to the vibrant atmosphere, local businesses and wellness brands joined forces to create a lively Post-Race Festival complete with food trucks, live music, a charity beer garden, and wellness experiences. The event was supported by International Protective Service, Inc. (IPS) as Title Sponsor, UCLA Health as Presenting Sponsor, and major partners including Rusnak Auto Group, SoCal Edison, Ventura Rental Party & Events, and The Malibu Times.
In its second year, Malibu Moves doubled in size and in community impact. The event welcomed participants of all paces and backgrounds, including walkers, first-time movers, adaptive athletes, and experienced runners. The shared message throughout the weekend was clear: movement is for everyone.
“We’re incredibly grateful for Malibu Moves’ support” said Keegan Gibbs, Co-Founder of the Community Fire Brigade. “It helps us stay prepared, stay equipped, and stay connected — because when the next emergency hits, our neighbors count on us.”
Karin Al-Hardan, President of the Malibu Education Foundation, added, “Malibu Moves is more than an event; it is a celebration of our community’s spirit. The funds raised will directly support our schools, teachers, and students who are the future of this city.”
Among the weekend’s most inspiring moments were the stories of participants who moved for something bigger than themselves—parents honoring teachers, survivors marking milestones, and fundraisers walking or running to give back to the city they call home.
Top finishers crossed the finish line with pride, but the true victory was shared by everyone who came together for a common purpose.
Top Results:
Half Marathon: Russell Yu, Alhambra, 1:14:02 | Elyissa Santos, North Hollywood, 1:21:27
10K: Levi Lorenzana, Santa Clarita, 33:55 | Akiko Crawford, Tujunga, 47:11
5K: Dave Barnett, Pacific Palisades, 17:53 | Maddie Mooney, Eugene, 18:23
The morning concluded with medals, music, and a powerful sense of unity, proving that Malibu’s heartbeat is stronger than ever.
As Malibu Moves continues to grow, so does its impact. What began as a simple idea to bring people together through movement has become a powerful annual tradition of resilience, wellness, and community connection.
Save the date for 2026 — October 24 & 25 at Zuma Beach.
Registration opens in January with the lowest prices of the year, so mark your calendar and be part of Malibu’s most scenic and inspiring weekend of movement and giving back.
