<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The </span><strong>California International Marathon (CIM)</strong><span style="font-weight: 400;"> is one of the most iconic marathons in the U.S., known for its net downhill course and perfect blend of elite racing and runner-friendly organization. From its meticulously planned logistics to its enthusiastic community support, this race offers an experience that draws both first-time marathoners and seasoned runners chasing personal records or Boston Qualifiers (BQs). Held annually in Sacramento, California, CIM promises a race day you won&rsquo;t forget.</span></p>
<h3><strong>Why You&rsquo;ll Love the California International Marathon</strong></h3>
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<h4><strong>A Fast and Scenic Course: </strong><span style="font-weight: 400;">The point-to-point course begins in Folsom and runs through suburban and urban Sacramento, culminating with a dramatic finish at the State Capitol. While billed as &ldquo;net downhill,&rdquo; runners should prepare for rolling hills in the first 20 miles that add variety without being overly challenging. The final 10K is flat, offering a great opportunity to pick up the pace and push to the finish.</span></h4>
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<h4><strong>Elite-Level Organization: </strong><span style="font-weight: 400;">CIM is famously &ldquo;for runners, by runners,&rdquo; and the attention to detail shows. Aid stations every 1-2 miles are stocked with water, Nuun, and Gu gels, ensuring you stay fueled throughout the race. The race&rsquo;s porta-potty-to-runner ratio is among the best, making pre-race and on-course stops stress-free. Shuttle buses to the start and back from the finish are well-organized, ensuring a seamless transportation experience.</span></h4>
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<h4><strong>Perfect Weather for Running: </strong><span style="font-weight: 400;">Sacramento in December offers ideal marathon conditions. With temperatures typically ranging from the mid-40s at the start to mid-50s at the finish, you&rsquo;ll enjoy a cool, comfortable race. Occasional fog in the early miles adds a touch of drama to the morning.</span></h4>
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<h4><strong>Incredible Post-Race Swag: </strong><span style="font-weight: 400;">Runners rave about CIM&rsquo;s finisher swag. From reusable water bottles to stylish backpacks and commemorative jackets, the race goes above and beyond to ensure participants leave with meaningful mementos. The finisher medal, often inspired by the California state flag, is a favorite among runners.</span></h4>
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<h4><strong>A Chance to Qualify for Boston: </strong><span style="font-weight: 400;">CIM is known as a &ldquo;fast&rdquo; course, consistently ranking as one of the top races for Boston Marathon qualifiers. The combination of rolling hills, downhill stretches, and strong crowd energy creates the perfect environment for achieving your goals.</span></h4>
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<h3><strong>What You Should Know Before You Go</strong></h3>
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<h4><strong>Prepare for Rolling Hills: </strong><span style="font-weight: 400;">While the course is net downhill, the rolling hills in the first 20 miles can be challenging if you&rsquo;re not prepared. Incorporate hill training into your preparation to ensure a strong performance.</span></h4>
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<h4><strong>Arrive Early for the Start: </strong><span style="font-weight: 400;">With thousands of runners, the start line can feel crowded. The shuttle system is efficient, but it&rsquo;s best to arrive early to avoid stress. Expect some lines for porta-potties and be ready to warm up on the go.</span></h4>
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<h4><strong>Support for Slower Finishers: </strong><span style="font-weight: 400;">CIM enforces a 6-hour course limit. While some support remains for slower runners, finish-line amenities may be scaled back toward the end. Bring a hydration bottle and extra nutrition if you anticipate a longer finish time.</span></h4>
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<h4><strong>Scenic but Suburban: </strong><span style="font-weight: 400;">The suburban and urban stretches of the course are functional rather than picturesque. However, the finish at the State Capitol and the energy from spectators more than make up for it.</span></h4>
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<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The </span><strong>California International Marathon</strong><span style="font-weight: 400;"> is a race that combines the prestige of elite competition with the welcoming atmosphere of a community-focused event. Whether you&rsquo;re chasing a personal best, qualifying for Boston, or simply soaking in the spirit of a well-loved marathon, CIM offers an exceptional experience from start to finish.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Join thousands of runners on this legendary course and cross the finish line at the California State Capitol with pride. Register early to secure your spot and make your marathon dreams a reality!</span></p>

California International Marathon

Pre-Race Review/ Lineup

The 2024 California Marathon on Sunday, December 8, will go through the same route used for 40 years.

California International Marathon returns to Sacramento

Post-Race Review/ Results

CJ Albertson from Fresno won the 2023 California International Marathon in 2:11.

California Resident is Winner in California's International Marathon

C.J. Albertson won the 2023 California International Marathon in 2:11 while Grace Kahura won the women's race in 2:29.

Thousands run in 40th California International Marathon in Sacramento County

A glimpse at the starting line of the 2023 California International Marathon on Sunday, December 3.

California International Marathon Is Underway Drawing Runners from All Over the World

Tougher than Expected, Too Many Participants

Don't Run If You Can't Finish in 5 hours 30 mins

Objective review from back of the pack runner

Great overall race, with excellent organization!

My 1st BQ!   You must be researched and trained.

Very Well-Organized, Not Particularly Fast, Course

You could be better  and you have been better. B-

I have run the CIM 21 times in a row, it's great

Expected more after 31 years of an Intl Marathon

Pace group was a tremendous help on stormy day

Great marathon... water stations need fixing

Fast course; well organized; world-class runners

No better place to run your first marathon

Awesome Boston Qualifier or First Marathon

CIM is pretty much what it claims if you're ready

Loved the course, but those water stops...

BQ'd for the first time in my 11th Marathon

Not as fast as I expected, but very well organized

Great organization, fast course, but cold/windy

Nice race that seems to have grown too quickly

Do NOT rely on buses to get to start on time!

Thank you for your interest in the California International Marathon! If you have any additional questions, please feel free to ask using this form. We’ll do our best to respond as soon as possible.