Sports

Tochella 2025 Hits Hard with 380 Teams and Baja Heat
 Articles, Ensenada, Sports

Tochella 2025: 380 Teams, Big Plays, and Baja Vibes

Ensenada usually serves up wine tastings, scenic strolls, and seafood towers—but this weekend, it’s all about touchdowns and flag-grabbing glory.

From July 3 to 6, the Tochella Flag Festival has taken over the Raúl Ramírez Lozano Sports Complex—better known to locals as Ciudad Deportiva de Valle Dorado—and turned it into a full-blown flag football battleground. With 380 teams from all over Mexico (and a few from the U.S.), this thing is officially huge.

Not Just a Game—It’s a Movement

Mayor Claudia Agatón Muñiz called Tochella one of the biggest sporting events in the region, right behind Baja’s legendary off-road races. And she’s not exaggerating—between players, coaches, and their families, thousands rolled into town for the four-day showdown.

“For us, events like this are a win-win,” said Agatón. “They promote physical activity, but they also boost the local economy—from street vendors to hotel owners.”

Flags, Footwork, and Fresh Kicks

This isn’t a friendly neighborhood scrimmage. Tochella features 5-on-5 matchups with real stakes, elite divisions, and serious talent—like the kind that can juke you out of your sandals before breakfast.

Games have been running from 6:00 a.m. until sundown, with finals set for today, Sunday, July 6. And while the action on the field is intense, the off-field vibe is pure festival: DJs, food stands, merch booths, and even sneaker-cleaning stations.

If you’ve ever wanted to watch a touchdown while eating ceviche and bobbing your head to reggaetón, this is your moment.

Meet the Minds Behind the Madness

The mayor gave a well-earned shoutout to the brains behind Tochella:

  • Luis Fernando Gutiérrez Acosta, Defensive Coach and World Champ with Mexico’s Women’s National Team.
  • Iván Méndez, U-20 national team player and world silver medalist.
  • Luis Moreno, the organizer who helped make all this happen.

Agatón also said her administration is committed to improving the sports complex’s courts, aiming to make Ensenada a prime destination for international tournaments.

Still Time to Catch the Action

Haven’t been yet? No problem. Entry is totally free, and today’s finals promise some of the best flag football you’ll see this year. Whether you’re in it for the sport or the snacks, Ciudad Deportiva is the place to be.

Want to follow the brackets or check who’s still undefeated in the Femenil D1 division?

Check out @tochella_flag_festival on Instagram—it’s got everything from game schedules to crowd highlights.

🟣 No Bad News. Just high-fives, highlight reels, and a whole lot of heart.

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Rosarito’s Half Marathon
 Articles, Rosarito, Sports, Video

VIDEO: Rosarito Runs the Extra Mile—Literally

Running Toward Community: Rosarito’s Half Marathon Was More Than Just a Race

ROSARITO, B.C. — The streets of Rosarito were pounding with sneakers, sunscreen, and just enough sweat to earn those shiny finisher medals. The 2025 Powerade Rosarito Half Marathon and its 5K sidekick drew over 2,500 runners, turning a sunny coastal Sunday into a full-blown celebration of community, resilience, and movement.

Yes, it was hot. Yes, it was humid. And yes, some runners wished for a few more hydration points. But judging by the smiles (and the glorious sunburns), the event delivered more than just miles—it brought magic.

Winners, Records, and Local Heroes

Daniel “Pollito” Valdez flew past the finish line in 1:09:56, defending his 2024 title like a true Mexicali champ. On the women’s side, Natalie Mendoza dominated with a 1:18:54 finish, leaving no doubt about her podium position.

But hey, this wasn’t just for elite athletes. Hundreds came out to walk, jog, or run the 5K, proving that Rosarito’s race isn’t just a competition—it’s a celebration of movement in all its forms.

And speaking of everyday heroes, one of our very own—Alberto Rosas, Gringo Gazette’s loyal Punta Banda delivery agent and ad rep—tackled the half marathon like a pro. If you see him out on his route this week, give him a sweaty high-five or a heartfelt “¡Felicidades!”

Meet Alberto Rosas—our Punta Banda newspaper hero, sales agent by day, and now half marathon finisher. Yep, he delivers ads and miles!
Meet Alberto Rosas—our Punta Banda newspaper hero, sales agent by day, and now half marathon finisher. Yep, he delivers ads and miles!

Music, Medals, and Tactical Gear?

Yep, along the route there was music, cheers, and the occasional cowbell. But the post-run scene got a surprising twist: the Guardia Nacional set up an info booth, complete with tactical gear displays and flyers reminding everyone they’re working to improve public safety. Officers Urbida and Cecilia were on hand to answer questions and hand out pamphlets about how to report crime online—turns out, even runners like to stay informed.

National Guard reps Oficial Urbida and Cecilia brought the gear, the pamphlets, and the public safety vibes to Rosarito’s marathon scene.

One Gripe, Plenty of Praise

If there was one recurring complaint? Not quite enough water stations for the heat. But organizers from IMDER were all ears, promising to review the feedback for future editions.

That said, the rest was a hit: good vibes, solid logistics, community support, and plenty of medals to show off on social media.

🎤 Behind the Scenes, All Hands on Deck

Before the race kicked off, a brief ceremonial send-off was held at the iconic Rosarito Arch. Among those present were Mayor Rocio Adame; councilmembers Yoselin Peña, Ricardo Cabrales, and Luisa Vanessa Díaz; Citizen Security Secretary Héctor Manzo; COTUCO Rosarito President Leonardo Verdugo; Immujer Director Irami Cortez de los Ángeles; City Secretary José Luis Alcalá; and Elias Torres Balcázar, representing INDE BC. The event was organized by IMDER—the city’s Municipal Institute of Sports—which also ensured safety, hydration, and good vibes across the board. Between the runners, volunteers, medics, and cheering neighbors, Rosarito showed once again that when it comes to community spirit, it goes the full distance.

Is This Your Sign to Lace Up?

Whether you’re a seasoned marathoner or someone who considers walking to the fridge a sport, events like these show the power of coming together through movement. And with a 5K option on the table, there’s truly a spot for everyone.

If you ran the Rosarito half or the 5K, we want to hear from you! Tag us, send photos, or just brag a little. And if you didn’t run—well, there’s always next year.

Rosarito on the Run: Faces, Finish Lines, and Fiesta Vibes

📝 Reporting by GGNorth’s running shoes and not-so-fresh legs

📸 Got race pics? Send them in and we’ll feature a few!

💬 Want more race or community fitness coverage? Let us know!

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 Events, Sports

Newport to Ensenada Regatta Set to Sail Again for its 77th Edition

Ahoy, sailors and landlubbers alike! Get ready to grab your sun hats and binoculars because the iconic Newport to Ensenada International Yacht Race is back for its 77th year—and it’s bringing plenty of wind, waves, and international camaraderie with it.

The City of Ensenada, under the leadership of Mayor Claudia Agatón Muñiz, proudly announced that everything’s shipshape for one of the biggest nautical events between Mexico and the U.S.

Representing the mayor, Jared Gutiérrez López, Director of International Affairs, and Andrés Marínez Bremer, President of Proturismo, met up with Newport Beach Mayor Joe Stapleton, NOSA Commodore Philip Herzfeld, and Mexico’s Consul in Santa Ana, Audrey Rivera Gómez, among other dignitaries and VIPs, to celebrate the regatta’s launch.

This historic race isn’t just about fancy yachts and shiny trophies—it’s about the deep friendship and growing ties between the sister cities of Newport Beach and Ensenada. Around 130 sailboats are expected to make the legendary journey south, reaffirming maritime and cultural bonds that have been cruising strong for decades.

When the boats start arriving in Ensenada, expect a fiesta fit for a fleet! The city will roll out the welcome mat with special receptions, cultural activities, and commemorative events organized by local and state authorities, along with nautical clubs from both sides of the border.

“The Newport to Ensenada Regatta is a shining example of international cooperation that strengthens our community,” said Jared Gutiérrez on behalf of Mayor Agatón. “This historic connection continues to place Ensenada on the global sailing map.”

The City of Ensenada invites everyone—from hardcore sailors to curious spectators—to come celebrate this unique event full of sport, culture, and international friendship. So mark your calendars, polish those deck shoes, and let’s make this another unforgettable race!

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 Baja Norte, Breaking News, Calendar of Events, Events, San Felipe, Sports

Everything Ready for the SCORE San Felipe 250 in Baja California

San Felipe is gearing up to host one of the most anticipated events on the international off-road racing calendar—the 38th edition of the SCORE San Felipe 250, running from April 3 to April 6. With strong support from the State Government led by Governor Marina del Pilar, this event is set to bring both adrenaline and a boost to local tourism.

So far, 234 teams have registered from all over the globe, including Argentina, New Zealand, Canada, Australia, the United States, Japan, and Mexico. Registrations remain open until April 3, with numbers expected to keep climbing.

State Tourism Secretary Miguel Aguíñiga Rodríguez put it best: “The SCORE San Felipe 250 is more than just a race—it’s a tourism engine that puts Baja California on the world stage. It celebrates the union of sport, adventure, and our unique hospitality as a destination.”

Participants have already begun familiarizing themselves with the official 250-mile route through extreme terrain—a challenging stretch that promises plenty of technical hurdles in the San Felipe desert.

Event Schedule:

• Thursday, April 3: Trophy Trucks take part in an exclusive qualification round.

• Friday, April 4: Official mechanical inspections (Tech & Contingency) kick off, with a meet-up for fans, media, and racers.

• Saturday, April 5: 6:00 a.m. – Motorcycles and Quads hit the track; 10:00 a.m. – Four-wheel vehicles officially take off.

• Sunday, April 6: The event wraps up with an award ceremony celebrating the off-road spirit.

For more details on the race, visit score-international.com and bajacalifornia.travel.

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 Breaking News, Calendar of Events, Events, Fish Report, Rosarito, Sports

Get Ready for the “El Bebé” Fishing Tournament in Rosarito This March 30th

Rosarito’s “Playa El Bebé” will host the first round of Baja California’s state fishing competition this coming Sunday, March 30th, and organizers are expecting a strong turnout. Last year, the event drew nearly 150 anglers from across the state and Southern California.

The competition is part of the official calendar of SEPESCA BC, supported by Governor Marina del Pilar Ávila Olmeda’s administration, and organized by the Baja California Fishing Clubs Association. This year’s tournament is being hosted by TJ Fishing Club, represented by Nemesio Salazar Vázquez and Omar Reyes Moreno.

This event is the first of three selective beach fishing tournaments that will qualify participants for the State Championship. The tournament will kick off at 5:00 AM, with registration for anglers. The official start of fishing will be at 7:00 AM, and the weigh-in will close at 1:00 PM, allowing participants who are in line by that time to still compete.

At the end of the day, prizes will be awarded in categories such as children’s, women’s, mojarra, and other species. There will also be raffles and food made with local fish.

For those interested in participating, details on registration, costs, rules, and prizes can be found by calling 664 493 6014 or 664 339 9173, or by emailing tjfishingclub@gmail.com. More information is also available on their website.

In support of the event, Victor Hugo Méndez, head of Sport Fishing at SEPESCA BC, presented financial support to the organizers to help cover event expenses.

If you want to compete, you can sign up the day of the event or pre-register at Pesca del Mar Outdoors in Ensenada or Fishing Crew Store in La Gloria.

Looking ahead, the next two rounds of the state competition will take place on April 27th at Sunset Beach in Ensenada, hosted by Club Pura Vida, and on July 20th at Playa El Pabellón in San Quintín, organized by Pioleros del Valle de San Quintín.

Top anglers from these events will have the chance to represent Baja California in the VI National Beach Sport Fishing Championship, held September 19-20 at Playa Manzanilla, Jalisco.

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Photo courtesy of El Vigia
 Ensenada, Sports

“Mermaid of the Water” Surf Festival Announced in Ensenada

With the intention of generating healthy and educational events, as well as promoting the unity of the community and women who practice the sport of surfing, women from Ensenada will hold the “Sirenas al Agua Surf Festival”. This is the first female surfing tournament, which will take place on April 15th and 16th at Playa San Miguel, with a prize pool of 30,000 pesos and a registration fee of 500 pesos. Yolanda Sierra, a member of the group “Nosotras y el Mar”, indicated that the female event will begin with an icebreaker on the evening of April 14th at the craft beer establishment called “Magnánima”. “As Ensenada surfers, we believe it is necessary to hold healthy and educational events to promote the unity and community of women in surfing,” she said.

She pointed out that in addition to promoting healthy competition, the basic rules of the sport will be disseminated, among other factors, so that it can be practiced safely. They also seek to encourage healthy competition in the younger generations and promote surfing as a professional sport, creating healthy habits through responsible and friendly events between humans and the environment. Additionally, this tournament seeks to generate an economic benefit for the community due to the people who could come from other cities or the neighboring state of California.

Finally, it was reported that on April 14th, during the icebreaker, registration will take place, and a competition kit will be provided to the competitors. Informative talks will also be offered, and films related to this exciting activity will be screened. The tournament will take place on April 15th and 16th, and at the same time, there will be yoga, skateboarding, music, a bazaar, and a camping area.

SOURCE: El Vigia
Photo courtesy of El Vigia

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