Non-binary winner of Los Angeles Marathon receives no prize money
Los Angeles Marathon (Instagram/calcalamia/brynnosborn | David Crane/MediaNews Group/Los Angeles Daily News via Getty Images)
Cal Calamia made headlines by once again winning the non-binary division of the Los Angeles Marathon on 8 March, but unlike their cisgender counterparts, they left the race without any prize money.
Calamia, who previously secured victory in this category in 2024, is part of a growing movement advocating for recognition and support of nonbinary athletes.
The ASICS Los Angeles Maraton offered a dedicated registration devision for nonbinary and gender-nonconforming runners in March, allowing individuals to appear in results under the category.
READ MORE: Meet the non-binary runner taking fight for equality in athletics worldwide after historic win
The top three winners of the category are given medals, but are not recognised on the main podiums like their cisgender counterparts.
The top three nonbinary and gender-nonconforming winners also do not receive prize money as there is no nonbinary category in the elite divisions, according to The McCourt Foundation and the LA Marathon rules. There was a $25,000 prize pot for runners in cisgender categories.
LA’s 2026 marathon saw over 27,000 participants, and raised over $4.5 million for charity. There were 150 participants in the nonbinary division this year with Calamia claiming first place with a 2-hour 49-minute and 17-second finish.
Calamia, noted the nonbinary division was a “chicken and egg issue” in a 6 March interview with the Los Angeles Times. “There’s a lot of, ‘Oh, it’s not competitive enough and too small,’ but how could it be competitive enough if it’s not recognised?” they said.
They still shared their appreciation for the category, however, saying: “LA is this place where all these different people from all over the place come together to pursue their dreams, which is inspiring. Having nonbinary representation on the course, as well as support from spectators, sets a precedent for other cities around the globe: that no one should have to choose between being who you are and doing what you love.”
Share your thoughts! Let us know in the comments below, and remember to keep the conversation respectful.
