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Jul 24, 2026
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The San Francisco Marathon showcases iconic city landmarks and Bay Area beauty, starting in San Francisco's Ferry Building and finishing at the Golden Gate Bridge. Runners traverse diverse neighborhoods including the Financial District, waterfront paths along the Embarcadero, and climb modest hills while enjoying views of the Golden Gate Bridge, Bay Bridge, and San Francisco Bay.
Cool and typically dry with moderate winds from the Pacific. Summer fog is common, creating favorable running conditions but limited visibility of landmarks.
San Francisco
The San Francisco Marathon was founded in 2000, during the golden age of mass-participation running. Now 26 years old, it has established itself as a beloved fixture in San Francisco, growing from its early editions into a race with genuine character and loyal following.
The fastest time ever recorded at the San Francisco Marathon is 02:11:54, set by Shadrack Kipchoge in 2017. Every year, new contenders line up hoping to challenge that mark on the streets of San Francisco.
The San Francisco Marathon route is one of those courses where runners forget their pace and reach for their phones. The scenery through San Francisco and its surroundings has earned this race a reputation as one of the most photogenic in North America.
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02:11:54
Shadrack Kipchoge (2017)
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