Inaugural IPS Malibu Moves Presented by UCLA Health Unites Community for Fitness, Wellness, and Charity
Malibu, CA – October 27, 2024 – The inaugural IPS Malibu Moves: 5K, Half Marathon & Kids Run, sponsored by International Protective Services (IPS) and presented by UCLA Health, brought over 1,300 participants to Zuma Beach for a weekend of fitness, wellness, and philanthropy. With blue skies and breathtaking ocean views, the event celebrated the power of community while raising $30,000 for charity, with the majority of the funds supporting the Malibu Education Foundation (MEF).
The event featured races for all abilities, including a half marathon, 5K, and Kids Run, with participants embracing Malibu’s scenic coastline. Notable performances included course records set by Diego Pastrano (1:15:30) and Aria Blumm (1:28:18) in the half marathon, and Gordon Vaught (17:01) and Rebecca Durant (18:34) in the 5K.
The Resilient Hero Award, honoring the final finisher for their perseverance and determination, was awarded to Ali Chin, embodying the spirit of inclusivity that defines Malibu Moves.
“This weekend was a dream come true and a beautiful reminder of how movement and community go hand in hand.”
A standout participant, Atticus Moffat of Malibu Middle School, placed first in his age group and 13th overall. Moffat’s newfound love for running is thanks to a new athletic program launched by MEF, highlighting the impact of local initiatives.
Assemblymember Jacqui Irwin participated in the 5K and presented a special recognition to Malibu Mayor Doug Stewart, acknowledging the City Council’s leadership in fostering events that promote wellness, unite the community, and support meaningful causes like MEF. Mayor Pro Tem Marianne Riggins also joined the 5K, further demonstrating the city’s commitment to community engagement.
Sawyer Keegan, a Malibu High School student, presented an award to Aaron Jones, CEO of IPS, in recognition of their title sponsorship and instrumental role in making the inaugural event possible. Both the Half Marathon and 5K warm-ups were led by Dr. Nelson Boland, representing UCLA Health, who also participated in the 5K.
The event also welcomed Pepperdine University President Jim Gash and First Lady Joline Gash, who greeted participants and took part in the 5K. Their university’s Resilience-Informed Skills Education (RISE) Program earned the Biggest Team Award, with over 150 students participating.
The celebration continued with a lively post-race festival at Zuma Beach, featuring music, food trucks, and a Charity Beer Garden hosted by Malibu Brewing Company, with all proceeds benefiting MEF. Adding to the impact, a sizable donation came from a generous corporate partner, Equinox, which is set to open one of its premium clubs in Pacific Palisades end of 2024, furthering community engagement and support for wellness initiatives.
Throughout the event, fundraising efforts were celebrated for their remarkable impact. John George earned the top fundraiser award, making a substantial contribution to MEF’s programs. Bianca Torrence, representing the David Torrence Legacy Foundation, achieved second place for her commitment to promoting clean sports and inspiring young athletes in memory of her son, the late Olympian David Torrence. Jamin Kerner, husband of MEF board member Maggie Castle, was recognized as the third-place fundraiser, rounding out an impressive show of support for the cause.
The Kids Run on Saturday morning brought joy to more than 60 children, aged 4 to 10, reminding everyone that the love of movement starts early. The children's enthusiasm reflected Malibu Moves’ mission to foster healthy habits and build community through sports and play. Representatives from UCLA Health, dressed in scrubs, ensured that each young participant felt celebrated, awarding them medals and cheering them on with high-fives.
“This weekend was a dream come true and a beautiful reminder of how movement and community go hand in hand,” said Erica Segel, Founder and Race Director of Malibu Moves. “We are so grateful to every participant, sponsor, donor, and volunteer who helped make this event a success. Together, we’ve made a meaningful difference for our public schools and students.”
“We are so grateful to every participant, sponsor, donor, and volunteer who helped make this event a success. Together, we’ve made a meaningful difference for our public schools and students.”
The event was made possible through the support of generous sponsors. IPS served as the title sponsor, while UCLA Health was the presenting sponsor. Additional contributions from Pepperdine Graziadio Business School in partnership with Santa Monica College, Rusnak BMW, and Wipala Snacks enhanced the participant experience. The VIP Lounge, hosted by Ventura Rentals Party & Events, provided recovery treatments from Hydration Room, Heroic Performance, and Hyperice, along with catering from local eatery Scott’s Malibu Market.
Additionally, Wipala Gels kept participants energized on course, while Voli Wellness provided all-natural hydration.
With over 1,300 participants, the inaugural IPS Malibu Moves has established itself as a premier community event, combining fitness, wellness, and philanthropy along Malibu’s scenic coastline.
