© Marathon de San Francisco
San Francisco Marathon: 30,000 Runners Ready to Take on the Golden Gate
This Sunday, July 27, San Francisco will come alive for its iconic marathon. Nearly 30,000 runners are expected to take to the streets of the legendary Californian city in the northwest United States. With the highlight being the breathtaking crossing of the Golden Gate Bridge and a course that is as challenging as it is scenic, the San Francisco Marathon promises an unforgettable experience—equal parts athletic test and visual spectacle.
| A Marathon with Deep Roots and Constant Evolution
The San Francisco Marathon dates back to the mid-1970s. It was founded in 1977 by the local running group Pamakids Runners Club, still active today, with a mission to create an event “by runners, for runners”—a spirit that continues to guide the race today. The first edition took place on July 10, 1977, with around 1,000 participants. The inaugural winner was Athol Barton, a taxi driver, who completed the 26.2-mile (42.195 km) course in a remarkable 2:24:59—an impressive debut time considering the course’s significant elevation changes (more on that below).
The event quickly gained popularity: about 7,000 finishers by 1983, nearly 11,000 by 2005, and over 21,000 by 2009. While it may not be one of the six World Marathon Majors, the San Francisco Marathon does offer qualifying spots for the Boston Marathon. Over the years, the race has expanded to include a variety of distances: full marathon, half marathon, 10K, 5K, and even an ultramarathon (running the marathon course twice), now spread over two days—Saturday, July 26, and Sunday, July 27, 2025. There’s also a family-friendly 1K fun run on Saturday morning at 8:00 AM.
| An Exceptional Course from the Golden Gate to Haight Street
The 26.2-mile route follows a single-loop course, starting and finishing on the Embarcadero, across from the Bay Bridge. After setting off along the waterfront, runners pass through Fisherman’s Wharf, then on to Marina Green and Crissy Field before tackling the majestic Golden Gate Bridge—a truly memorable highlight. Runners turn around at Vista Point on the north side before returning across the bridge, heading downhill toward Golden Gate Park, through the historic Haight-Ashbury neighborhood, past the Chase Center (home to the NBA’s Golden State Warriors), and finishing near Howard Street back on the Embarcadero.
It’s an early start: the marathon kicks off at exactly 5:15 AM on Sunday. One of the course’s defining features is its elevation gain—about 1,860 feet (567 meters) in total—something to keep in mind if you’re chasing a personal best. The course record was set in 1984 by Kenya’s Simeon Kigen in 2:10:18. To support runners along the hilly route, 14 hydration and aid stations are positioned throughout the course.
On race day, San Francisco truly embraces the event. Key locations such as the Golden Gate Bridge, the Embarcadero, and the Presidio are closed to traffic, turning the city into a runner’s paradise and delighting both participants and spectators.
| Record-Breaking Participation Expected in a Bold 2025 Edition
While the final list of elite athletes competing this year hasn’t been confirmed yet, one thing is certain: the 2025 edition will see record participation, with approximately 30,000 runners across all distances. It’s a milestone for both the race and its organizers.
Participants will include a mix of those eager to experience the magic of running through a legendary city and those aiming to qualify for the Boston Marathon. A notable contingent of French runners is expected at the start line on the Embarcadero. One of them, Christian Robert, shared his experience from the 2016 edition on the official race website: “I loved every moment of the race—from the fantastic organization to the early start time, which worked perfectly with my jet lag, to the enthusiastic crowds along the route. Running across and back over the Golden Gate Bridge… nothing compares to that—except maybe a trail run around Mont Blanc!”
As for last year’s champions? In 2024, Americans Charlie Lawrence (2:22:30) and Jenna Wolfrum (2:52:10) claimed victory on the rolling hills of San Francisco.
More than just a race, the San Francisco Marathon offers a one-of-a-kind experience in California, combining world-famous scenery, a storied history, a challenging course, and a strong sense of community.
Charles-Emmanuel PEAN
Journaliste
