The Cobán Half Marathon has established itself as one of the most popular races among running fans, in addition to representing an important Economic injection for tourism in Verapaces.
On Tuesday, May 13, 2025, the Facebook page Walter Mass news He shared an interview With the mayor of San Pedro Carchá, Erwin Catún, who expressed his disagreement with the organizers of the race.
Catún warned that the 2025 edition, which will be held on May 25, would be the last time the 21 -kilometer route includes San Pedro Carchá. “I say it in advance: it will be the last time I go through our municipality,” affirmed.
According to the mayor, the organizers have not fulfilled the commitments acquired and have concentrated their attention exclusively in the Municipality of Cobán. Besides, He mentioned that there is a complaint before the Prosecutor’s Office for the garbage that is scattered in the streets after the event.
The 2025 edition of the Cobán Half Marathon It will have the participation of at least 8 thousand registered athletes, In addition to more than two thousand unregistered runners.
It is estimated that 71.98 % of the participants will be men and 28.02 % women, which represents an advance towards equity in a space historically dominated by men.
The organization of the event is expected to reach an agreement with the authorities of San Pedro Carchá to maintain the traditional tour in the 2026 edition.
It should be noted that Cobán’s half marathon was certified by World Athletics At the beginning of May and is already part of the annual world racing calendar that grant points for international rankings, the entity published.
The departure flag on May 25 will be on Minerva Street. The route will travel the main streets and avenues of Cobán and San Pedro Carchá, with a return that will take the runners to the José Ángel Rossi stadium, where the goal will be located.
Organizing Committee shares your concern
Juan de Dios Reyes Leal, a member of the Organizing Committee of the Half Marathon of Cobán, shared his concern for the position of Mayor Erwin Catún and lamented the position that the race passes through San Pedro Carchá.
“We have tried to communicate since June 2024 with them to seek to solve this problem, But unfortunately we have not had access to them, ”said Juan de Dios Reyes.
“We are concerned that a municipal cooperation dedicates so much time to a simple aspect to solve. This is a sporting event that brings a lot of investment and benefits to the municipalities of Alta and Baja Verapaz”He added.
“When we raise all the benefits of development and trade of the Middle Marathon of Cobán, We should reach coordination in the best conditions”He said.