The Carlsbad 5000 is one of the most innovative events in road racing. The 5k circuit course, now in its 39th year, has had many of the fastest track and road-running 5k racers in the world battling over the course. There are also opportunities to race for citizen runners as well. Brooks Running, the top brand in performance running footwear, is now sponsoring the iconic race.


Brooks Running Joins Forces with Carlsbad 5000 as Official Footwear Sponsor
The “World’s Fastest 5k” to welcome thousands of runners to the Oceanfront Streets of Downtown Carlsbad on Sunday, April 6, 2025
Carlsbad, CA – March 27, 2025 – Brooks Running, a leading performance run brand, is set to become the official running shoe sponsor for the Carlsbad 5000, marking a new chapter for the 39th running of the iconic road race scheduled for April 6, 2025.
A brand celebrated for its high-performance running footwear, Brooks joins forces with the Carlsbad 5000, an event distinguished not only by its scenic oceanfront course but also by its record-setting history. Since its first race in 1986, the Carlsbad 5000 has set the stage for 16 world and eight U.S. records, solidifying its reputation as the “World’s Fastest 5k.”
“At Brooks Running, we believe in inspiring everyone to run and be active,” said Ed Riegert, Director of North America Retail and Events Marketing. “Our collaboration with the Carlsbad 5000 allows us to bring our performance-based product to one of the most vibrant running events in the nation. We are excited to participate in this event, helping amplify the race day excitement and supporting runners in achieving their personal bests.”
Brooks creates innovative footwear, apparel, sports bras, and accessories for runners worldwide. These products are designed to take you to a place that makes you feel more alive. Brooks currently holds its position as the No. 1 adult performance running footwear brand in U.S. national retail.
“Partnering with Brooks Running brings a new dimension to the Carlsbad 5000, enhancing both performance and experience for participants,” said John Smith, owner of the Carlsbad 5000. “The race is a cornerstone of Southern California’s running calendar, offering a fast oceanfront course that caters to competitive spirits of all ages. Integrating Brooks’ performance technology with the event’s storied tradition offers a superior running experience, where every finisher, from amateur enthusiasts to elite athletes, celebrates their passion for running in a vibrant, supportive community.”

The Carlsbad 5000, recognized globally as the premier non-marathon road race, offers participants a fast-paced oceanfront course that appeals to runners of all ages and abilities. The event is structured with multiple races throughout the morning to enhance competitive spirit among various age groups. Runners enjoy scenic coastal views and an energetic atmosphere as they approach the finish line.
Post-race, participants gather at the “Party by the Sea” in the Pizza Port Beer Garden for live music and to celebrate their accomplishments. The weekend culminates with the Elite Invitationals, where professional athletes compete on this historic course before thousands of enthusiastic spectators.
For more information or to register for the event, visit Carlsbad5000.com. For more information about Brooks Running, visitbrooksrunning.com.
About Brooks Running
Brooks Running creates market-leading performance running footwear, apparel, sports bras, and accessories distributed worldwide. Brooks exists to inspire everyone to run and be active through innovative gear, tools, and experiences designed to take you to the place that makes you feel more alive. Since 1914, Brooks has been propelled by a never-ending curiosity about how humans move, pushing the limits of motion science, engineering, and technology to create gear that unlocks the power of energy and movement for everyone. Brooks is a Berkshire Hathaway Inc. subsidiary headquartered in Seattle, Washington. Visit www.brooksrunning.com for more information, or follow @brooksrunning.
About the Carlsbad 5000
The Carlsbad 5000 will celebrate its 39th edition the weekend of April 5-6, 2025. Since 1986, the prestigious event has seen 16 World and 8 U.S. records and numerous national and age group marks. The oceanfront course starts and finishes in downtown Carlsbad, taking runners past some of Southern California’s most scenic coastal views. The whole day of racing begins at 7:00am with events for all ages and abilities. At 12:30pm, the Elite Invitational takes center stage as some of the world’s fastest professionals compete for prize money. For more information or to register for the event, visit www.Carlsbad5000.com and follow @Carlsbad5000 on social media.
Special thanks to Dan Cruz, one of the coolest dudes in the world and a fantastic PR manager for road racing, marathons, and track and field! We worship him.