California International Marathon
Community Development Program

The California International Marathon (CIM) is committed to fostering a running community rooted in diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging. The Community Development Program is designed to create greater pathways for participation at CIM, especially for individuals and groups historically underrepresented in marathon running. Through this initiative, CIM strives to create a race environment that is safe, accessible, supportive, and welcoming for all runners.

The program offers two avenues for support:

  • Community Development Group Support – for running groups, clubs, or organizations fostering diversity, inclusion, and belonging in the sport.
  • Mile 1 Program – for individual first-time marathoners from underrepresented/marginalized communities and others facing barriers to participation.
1. Community Development Group Support – LIMITED SPOTS LEFT

This program offers financial support to running groups, clubs, and organizations dedicated to fostering diversity, inclusion, and belonging within the running community. Eligible groups may receive support covering costs for their members’ race entries, helping to eliminate barriers to participation.

This includes, but is not limited to, groups that support:

  • BIPOC runners
  • Athletes with disabilities
  • LGBTQ+ and non-binary athletes
  • Those experiencing financial barriers to participation
  • Other groups committed to creating a more inclusive and equitable running space

If your group is interested in participating, please apply for the Community Development Group Support Program.

Apply for Group Support
2. Mile 1 Program – LIMITED SPOTS LEFT

The Mile 1 Program celebrates and supports individual first-time marathoners from communities historically underrepresented in marathon running. This program helps ensure that runners of all backgrounds and identities have the opportunity to complete their first marathon at CIM. Accepted applicants will receive a fully comped entry into the marathon.

Eligible first-time marathoners include, but are not limited to:

  • BIPOC individuals
  • Athletes with disabilities
  • LGBTQ+ and non-binary athletes
  • Those experiencing financial barriers to participation
  • Other individuals committed to building a more inclusive running community

If you are a first-time marathoner seeking support, we encourage you to apply for the Mile 1 Program.

Apply for the Mile 1 Program

For questions, accessibility requests, or additional information, please contact info@runsra.org