Temuco Marathon 2026 turned the streets of the capital of La Araucanía into a true running festival, despite a storm that dropped more than 30 mm of rain overnight. This edition not only crowned new champions, but also confirmed Temuco as the host city of the South American Road Race Championships and showed that, with the right preparation, running in the rain can be an epic experience.
Schedule and context of MDT 2026
The Temuco Marathon 2026 calendar featured two key dates: Saturday 14 March for the recreational distances (5 km and 10 km), and Sunday 15 March for the half marathon (21 km) and the full marathon (42.195 km). Organised by the Municipal Sports and Recreation Corporation of Temuco with support from the city council, the event brought together around 3,500 runners from across Chile and abroad. MDT 2026 also held World Athletics certification, meaning that performances recorded there are valid for official rankings.
- Date: 14–15 March 2026.
- Distances: 5 km and 10 km (Saturday); 21 km and 42 km (Sunday).
- Participants: around 3,500 runners from different regions.
- Certification: official measurement and World Athletics homologation.
- Host of the South American Road Race Championships: Temuco staged the mile, 5 km and 21 km races.
- Logistics: hydration stations, medical assistance and a comprehensive safety operation throughout the course.
The schedule was designed to adapt to the changeable climate of southern Chile. The 42 km and 21 km races started from Estadio Germán Becker, one of Temuco’s best-known sporting venues, on a course that runs along avenues such as Pablo Neruda and Isla Cautín and that, in this edition, was lined with spectators despite the rain.
Race report: rain, passion and memorable podiums
Despite a heavy downpour at dawn, more than 1,300 athletes lined up and thousands of spectators took to the streets to cheer them on. The organisers’ contingency plan ensured that the race could go ahead smoothly, and the city rallied behind the runners. The rain added an extra layer of drama and showed that in southern Chile, running is much more than a sport — it is a shared celebration.
In the men’s marathon, the podium was decided by just 42 seconds. Enzo Yáñez Johnson took the win in 2:28:48, ahead of Francisco Méndez Morales (2:29:03) and Luis Valle Barrientos (2:29:30). In the women’s race, veteran Johanna Rivas Pacheco dominated in 2:37:15, finishing comfortably ahead of María Paz Escobar Toro (3:15:02) and Paulina Letelier (3:24:08). Over 21 km, Mario Rivas Vallejos (1:04:51) and María José Calfilaf (1:15:21) were the fastest, highlighting the consistency of Chilean distance runners even on wet roads.
- Men’s 42 km winners: Enzo Yáñez Johnson (2:28:48), Francisco Méndez Morales (2:29:03), Luis Valle Barrientos (2:29:30).
- Women’s 42 km winners: Johanna Rivas Pacheco (2:37:15), María Paz Escobar Toro (3:15:02), Paulina Letelier (3:24:08).
- Men’s 21 km podium: Mario Rivas Vallejos (1:04:51), Ricardo Rojas Faúdez (1:05:57), Sebastián Traslaviña Durán (1:08:16).
- Women’s 21 km podium: María José Calfilaf (1:15:21), Manuela Bugueño Ipinza (1:19:15), María Elena Acuña (1:20:28).
The narrow gap in the men’s podium and the commanding performance of the women’s champion reflect the strength of Chilean athletics. The rain did not slow the runners down — it heightened the drama and produced unforgettable scenes of effort and camaraderie.
Key tips for running in the rain
Racing in wet conditions requires a few adjustments to maintain both performance and safety. MDT 2026 was a powerful reminder of the importance of being ready for the unexpected. Here are some practical tips for your next rainy race:
- Choose the right kit: wear technical, waterproof yet breathable clothing. A lightweight shell and shoes with good grip help keep you comfortable and reduce the risk of slipping.
- Protect your feet: use quick-drying socks and apply a little petroleum jelly to areas prone to chafing. Wet feet can quickly lead to blisters.
- Adjust your pace: on wet surfaces, it is wise to slow slightly on corners and descents. Focus on keeping your stride short and stable for better traction.
- Hydrate properly: even in the rain, you continue to sweat. Drink regularly and consider electrolyte drinks to replace salts lost during the race.
- Train in similar conditions: including rainy sessions in your plan will help you get used to the sensation and test which gear works best for you.
It is also worth remembering that rain can be an ally: it helps regulate body temperature and, when you are properly prepared, running on a grey day can actually feel refreshing.
Impact and legacy of MDT 2026
Beyond the sporting results, the 2026 Temuco Marathon strengthened the city’s status as one of Chile’s and South America’s running hubs. Hosting the South American Road Race Championships brought international delegations to the region and firmly placed Temuco on the continental calendar. The event also had a positive economic impact, boosting sports tourism and projecting the image of La Araucanía internationally.
MDT 2026 also stood out for its inclusive approach. In addition to the marathon, it offered distances for runners of all levels and welcomed families and recreational participants. Because the performances are recognised by World Athletics, Chilean athletes now have another chance to chase qualifying marks for international events without leaving the country.
Preparing for the next edition: plan your marathon
If you dream of racing in Temuco in 2027 — or in another event with similar conditions — start planning early. Registering in advance secures your place and gives you more options for travel and accommodation. From a training perspective, build a strong aerobic base, include strength sessions and practise in a variety of weather conditions.
- Follow a progressive plan: gradually increase your weekly mileage and alternate long runs with intervals and threshold work.
- Include strength and stability training: stronger muscles reduce injury risk and improve running efficiency.
- Recover and listen to your body: adequate rest and mobility work are just as important as the running itself.
- Use tracking tools: apps like SnapRace help you schedule sessions, monitor your progress and adapt your strategy to your goals and the terrain. Its community also offers routes and advice from runners around the world.
- Learn from the experts: check out our race reports on events such as the Media Maratón del Mar 2026 or the Transgrancanaria Classic 2026 for more ideas on preparation and nutrition.
Temuco proved that even rain can become an ally when organisation is impeccable and runners are highly motivated. Now it is your turn: will you accept the challenge of crossing the finish line in the capital of southern Chile?