Running News Daily

Chipotle ends Los Angeles Strava challenge due to the wildfires

Chipotle’s January Strava challenge, offering runners a chance to win free Chipotle for a year, has come to a halt in Los Angeles as devastating wildfires forced the company to end the city competition early. With more than 180,000 residents evacuated due to fires in the city’s northwest, Chipotle decided it would be best to prioritize safety, and stopped the challenge at 11:59 p.m. PT on Thursday.The challenge was a hit in Los Angeles, which led to the global Strava x Chipotle City Challenge competition before the wildfires began on Jan. 7.

The challenge involves runners worldwide competing to become “Local Legends” by completing the most designated Strava segments during the month. The top individual in each participating city wins free Chipotle for a year, while cities collectively logging the highest mileage earn rewards like buy-one-get-one (BOGO) entrée deals for all residents.

Chipotle issued a statement explaining their decision: “Los Angeles, your health and safety is our greatest priority. Due to the devastating wildfires that are impacting the area, we are ending the Chipotle Los Angeles Segment Challenge at 11:59 p.m. PT on January 9, 2025. The Local Legend who has the greatest number of attempts at that time will be awarded with Lifestyle Bowls for a Year.”

Particles from wildfire smoke and other pollutants can be deadly and impact health. This is particularly concerning for runners, as intense outdoor exercise can aggravate the effects of airborne pollutants.

Brandon Fang of Del Rey, Calif., was named the winner after logging an incredible 284 efforts on the 330-metre segment (93.72 kilometres). On the final day of the challenge, Fang ran 12 kilometres on the segment in the morning, then returned later in the evening to run 50K after hearing about the early cutoff–all to secure a year’s worth of Chipotle.

While the Los Angeles competition came to an end due to the catastrophic fires, it continues in 24 other cities across North America and Europe (including Toronto). Runners in those cities still have a chance to win prizes and contribute to their city’s mileage totals.