The San Francisco Marathon

As someone who has proudly run the San Francisco Marathon more than ten times over the past 20 years, I’ve always cherished the breathtaking course, the cool coastal weather, and the spirit of the city. The natural beauty and iconic landmarks make it one of the most scenic marathons in the country. However, despite my deep connection to this race, I’ve grown increasingly disappointed by several aspects that seem to overlook the loyalty and experience of long-time participants: Excessive Entry Fees: The registration cost has become unreasonably high, especially without added value for repeat runners. Low-Quality Race Shirts: The running tops have declined in quality—these should be wearable keepsakes, not disposable. No Post-Race Beer Festival: A celebratory gathering would enhance the experience and foster community among runners. Lack of Age Group Awards: Recognizing top finishers by age is standard in most races and adds a layer of motivation and pride. No Recognition for 10+ Year Runners: There’s no acknowledgment for those of us who’ve shown up year after year. A special bib, medal, or shout-out would go a long way. I continue to run because I love this city and this course—but I hope the organizers will consider honoring the legacy and loyalty of veteran runners. We’re not just participants; we’re part of the race’s history.