Community Development

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:

  • RunSac CIM Entry Program – Offers CIM entry opportunities to highly engaged runners in the Sacramento region.
  • Mile 1 Program – for individual first-time marathoners from underrepresented/marginalized communities and others facing barriers to participation.
1. RunSac CIM Entry Program

As demand for the California International Marathon (CIM) grows, the RunSac Entry Program recognizes Sacramento’s most engaged local runners whose year-round participation helps strengthen our local running community.

RunSac Race Series participants who complete a designated number of RunSac Race Series events will earn priority access to a reserved “Blue Level” CIM entry—even after general registration has sold out—providing a protected pathway to participate in CIM for our most engaged Sacramento-area runners.

Learn More & Sign Up
2. Mile 1 Program

The Mile 1 Program is designed to break down barriers and support first-time marathoners from underrepresented running communities by providing a complimentary entry to the California International Marathon. We believe every runner—regardless of background, identity, or experience—deserves the opportunity to take on 26.2 miles with confidence.

This program is intended for individuals who are training for their first marathon and may face financial or systemic challenges in accessing race opportunities. Whether you’re seeking a welcoming start to your marathon journey or need a little extra support to make race day possible, the Mile 1 Program is here to help.

The 2026 Mile 1 Program application has closed. the 2027 application will open in January.

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