New Finish Line for La Ruta Maya 2026?

The La Ruta Maya Belize River Challenge returns from March 6 to 9, but this year’s race could end in a new location.

Organisers are considering moving the traditional Belize City finish to the Grand Resort near the entrance to Haulover Creek. Security concerns at the Civic Center have prompted the review.

“The Civic Center is too open, and we need to have better control of what happens,” said Vice Chair Roberto Harrison. A final decision is still pending.

The committee is also calling for fresh talent on the river. Participation has hovered around 60 to 65 paddlers in recent years, but organisers want more young paddlers to step up.

“Those paddlers that have been running this race over the last 20, 25 years are getting old now,” Harrison said. He says the annual race is in need of replacement while keeping the “experience and the guidance from these guys that have been winning the race over the last 20 years.”

Paddlers are being urged to register early to assist with proper planning.

The four-day race is expected to follow its traditional course for the first three legs: starting under the Hawkesworth Bridge in San Ignacio to Banana Bank on day one, then Banana Bank to Double Head Cabbage on day two, and Double Head Cabbage to Burrell Boom on day three. The final leg from Burrell Boom may see a change, with organisers considering ending at the Grand Resort instead of its usual finish at the Civic Center in Belize City.

Meanwhile, along the race’s route in Double Head Cabbage Village, the family of 18-month-old Keemar plans to use the race weekend to raise funds to help cover the cost of his medical treatment in Mexico. Little Keemar is fighting a medical battle his parents say cannot be diagnosed in Belize.

Organisers expect a slower river flow due to dry weather but confirm the race will proceed as scheduled.