"26.2 Miles of Running Heaven"

About our community

A coastal town with a quaint fishing harbor, Half Moon Bay is only 25 miles south of world-famous San Francisco, yet feels miles away because of the slow pace and small-town friendliness. The start and finish of the race is in the same harbor where the world-famous Mavericks Big Wave Invitational is held, and home to hotels, spas, and many unique restaurants. 

The 2011 HMBIM was presented by local restaurant legend Sam's Chowder House as our presenting sponsor. Sam's is famous for its amazing harbor views and relaxed atmosphere with amazing and award winning food! Best of all, Sam's is just steps away from the start/finish line. We are very grateful to Sam's for their support! 

The HMBIM was thrilled to host Elite Ultrarunning Star and Brooks Sponsored Athlete Scott Jurek as our Athlete at this year's Event! Among many accomplishments, Scott is the 7-time winner of the Western States 100 Mile Endurance Run, 3-time champion and only North American winner of the annual 153 mile Spartathlon race held in Greece, and the current American Record Holder of the IAU-IAAF 24-Hour Road Race. Scott spoke on two subjects at the Expo to packed rooms, then spent hours signing autographs and taking pictures with everyone who asked! 

The marathon course is unique in that it features 26 miles all along the Pacific coastline, avoiding all major streets for a wonderful running experience. September offers the prettiest weather for the local area, yet ideal running conditions as temperatures will typically range between the low 50s to the mid 60s. 

The Marathon is USATF certified and accordingly is recognized by the Boston Marathon and other events which require qualification on a certified course. The course is a flat course with very little elevation gain, run at sea level in excellent weather conditions---a great opportunity for you to meet or exceed your goals! 

 The Half Moon Bay International Marathon is investing the time, effort and funds up front to provide a sustainable, GREEN event to enhance our relationship benefitting the beautiful coastal environment we refer to as the "Coastside." Our Chief Green Officer (CGO) will be heading up the relationship, working with the Council for Responsible Sport seeking Gold Certification through their organization. This will ensure we have Green principles in the foremost of our planning and execution. Watch for communications on how you can do your part to help the effort as well as more information on our efforts. See our GREEN page for full information!

Come for the beauty, come for the weather, come and spend time in Half Moon Bay, and combine it with a visit to San Francisco or the Napa Valley Wine Country, all within a short drive! 

All of this combined means 26.2 Miles of Running Heaven!