Marathon

California International Marathon (CIM)

Net-downhill, point-to-point from Folsom Dam to the State Capitol. Cool December temps and a flat final 10K make CIM a PR-friendly, Boston-qualifying race.

Next raceSunday, December 6, 2026
RegistrationLimited entry
Distance categoryMarathon
LocationSacramento, California
Boston qualifierYes
Get alertsLast checked August 14, 2026BQ times

Quick facts

  • Point-to-point Folsom to State Capitol; net drop ~366 ft
  • USATF-certified; accepted for Boston and U.S. Olympic Trials qualification
  • Rolling early miles with a flat last 10K; plan even effort
  • Cool early-December weather is PR-friendly
  • Sells out; 2026 registration opens after Dec 7, 2025

What entry options are available for the 2026 California International Marathon (CIM)?

Normal entry for the 2026 California International Marathon (CIM) is unavailable, but limited entry options remain.

About the California International Marathon (CIM)

The California International Marathon (CIM) is Sacramento Running Association’s flagship 26.2. The point-to-point, net-downhill course runs from near Folsom Dam to the California State Capitol. It is USATF-certified, a Boston Marathon Qualifier, and a U.S. Olympic Trials qualifier, with a net elevation drop of about 366 ft.

Course

Classic CIM profile: gentle net descent with rolling early miles into a flat, fast final 10K through midtown, finishing at the Capitol. See the official course map & elevation and third‑party course analysis for pacing specifics.

Race-day weather

Early December in Sacramento is typically cool with morning temps in the 40s°F and highs in the 50s°F, often dry, making PR‑friendly conditions. The event FAQ cites average temps in the mid‑50s°F.

Past California International Marathon (CIM) dates and results

YearDateStatusResults
2026Sunday, December 6, 2026Upcoming
2025Sunday, December 7, 2025CompletedOpen results
2024Sunday, December 8, 2024CompletedOpen results

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California International Marathon (CIM) FAQ

When is the California International Marathon (CIM)?

The 2026 California International Marathon (CIM) is on Sunday, December 6, 2026.

What entry options are available for the 2026 California International Marathon (CIM)?

Normal entry for the 2026 California International Marathon (CIM) is unavailable, but limited entry options remain. View the official registration details at runsra.org.

Is California International Marathon (CIM) a Boston qualifier?

Yes. California International Marathon (CIM) is a Boston Marathon qualifier. To use the result, you must run the certified full-marathon course within the qualifying window and meet the current standard for your age and gender. Meeting the standard lets you apply but does not guarantee entry, and net-downhill courses can receive a time adjustment under current B.A.A. rules. Review the Boston qualifying times and downhill-course rules, or browse upcoming Boston qualifier marathons.

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