Races in California | Famous Races Across the State
California is home to some of the most iconic races in the world, attracting runners, cyclists, and car racing enthusiasts alike. From major marathons and triathlons to small community races, the state offers a diverse range of events for every level of athlete. Whether you’re a professional competitor or just looking for a fun challenge, California has something for everyone.
Running Races in California
Major Marathons & Half Marathons
Los Angeles Marathon
- Location: Los Angeles
- When: March
- One of the largest marathons in the U.S., with a scenic route from Dodger Stadium to Santa Monica Pier.
San Francisco Marathon
- Location: San Francisco
- When: July
- Features breathtaking views, including a run across the Golden Gate Bridge.
California International Marathon (CIM)
- Location: Sacramento
- When: December
- Known for its fast course, making it a popular Boston Marathon qualifier.
Big Sur International Marathon
- Location: Big Sur
- When: April
- Considered one of the most scenic marathons in the world, with a coastal route along Highway 1.
Long Beach Marathon
- Location: Long Beach
- When: October
- Features a beautiful course along the Pacific Ocean and the Queen Mary.
San Diego Rock ‘n’ Roll Marathon
- Location: San Diego
- When: June
- A lively marathon featuring live bands, cheer squads, and a festival atmosphere.
Unique & Fun Running Events
Bay to Breakers
- Location: San Francisco
- When: May
- A 7.5-mile race famous for its wild costumes, party-like atmosphere, and tradition.
Disneyland Half Marathon Weekend
- Location: Anaheim
- When: January
- Runners race through Disneyland and California Adventure, with character meet-and-greets along the course.
Escape from Alcatraz Triathlon
- Location: San Francisco
- When: June
- An intense swim from Alcatraz Island, followed by a bike ride and run through the city.
Mud Runs & Obstacle Races
- Tough Mudder (Sacramento, SoCal, San Jose) – Extreme endurance challenges with mud pits and obstacles.
- Spartan Race (Multiple Locations) – Tests strength, endurance, and teamwork with grueling obstacles and trail running.
Cycling Races in California
Professional & Long-Distance Cycling Races
Death Ride (Tour of the California Alps)
- Location: Markleeville
- When: July
- A 129-mile ultra-challenging race with 15,000 feet of climbing.
Tour de Palm Springs
- Location: Palm Springs
- When: February
- A fun and scenic ride through desert landscapes.
Sea Otter Classic
- Location: Monterey
- When: April
- A huge cycling festival featuring mountain biking, road racing, and BMX competitions.
Casual & Community Cycling Events
- Bike the Bridges (Martinez, Benicia) – A scenic charity ride over the Carquinez and Benicia-Martinez Bridges.
- Santa Barbara 100 – A challenging but scenic race along the Pacific coastline and Santa Ynez Mountains.
Car & Motorcycle Races in California
Major Car Racing Events
Toyota/Save Mart 350 (NASCAR Cup Series)
- Location: Sonoma Raceway
- When: June
- A thrilling NASCAR road course race in Northern California.
Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach
- Location: Long Beach
- When: April
- A famous IndyCar street race featuring high-speed action.
Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion
- Location: WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca
- When: August
- A vintage car race featuring historic race cars.
Motorcycle Races
Red Bull Grand Prix of the Americas (MotoGP)
- Location: Circuit of The Americas (formerly at Laguna Seca)
- One of the most prestigious motorcycle races in the world.
California Superbike School (Various Locations)
- Offers training and competition for motorcycle enthusiasts.
Horse Racing in California
Famous Horse Racing Tracks
Santa Anita Park
- Location: Arcadia
- Hosts the Santa Anita Derby and other major races.
Del Mar Racetrack
- Location: San Diego
- Famous for the Del Mar Thoroughbred Club Summer Racing Season.
Golden Gate Fields
- Location: Berkeley
- Northern California’s premier horse racing venue.
Other Unique Races in California
Hot Air Balloon Race
- Great Reno Balloon Race (Near California border) – A mesmerizing balloon race in the sky.
Dog-Friendly Races
- Doggy Dash (Sacramento) – A fun run with dogs, supporting animal shelters.
Boat Races
- Newport to Ensenada International Yacht Race – A sailing race from California to Mexico.
California is a racing paradise, offering everything from marathons and triathlons to cycling, car racing, and even hot air balloon competitions. Whether you’re competing in a world-famous event or joining a small community race, there’s always an exciting race to participate in.
