California International Marathon (CIM)

The California International Marathon, widely known as CIM, is one of the premier marathon events in the United States and a bucket-list race for runners chasing fast times, Boston qualifiers, and Olympic Trials standards. Held in Northern California, the race follows a point-to-point, net-downhill course from Folsom to Sacramento, California, United States, finishing at the historic California State Capitol. The event is organized by the Sacramento Running Association, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit.

CIM is marketed as “The Fastest Course in the West,” and for good reason. The course has remained largely unchanged for more than four decades, beginning near Folsom’s foothills and flowing toward downtown Sacramento. With a net elevation drop of 366 feet, gentle rolling hills, and a flat, fast finish, it is one of the most popular U.S. marathons for runners looking to run a personal best or qualify for Boston. CIM is also USATF certified and sanctioned, and it serves as both a Boston Marathon qualifier and a U.S. Olympic Trials Marathon qualifier.