FAQs
What time does the race start?
The SF Mile utilizes a wave start method to ensure a clear road and the best possible race conditions for all participants. The tentative schedule is as follows. (Note, the schedule is subject to change, but any changes will be minor.)
7:40 AM: Masters Women (40+)
8:00 AM: Masters Men (40+)
8:15 AM: Open #1 (7:30+)
8:30 AM: Open #2 (5:30-7:30)
8:45 AM: The Dog Mile
9:00 AM: Elite Women
9:10 AM: Elite Men
9:20 AM: Family/Community Walk Jog
What is the entry fee and what does it include?
For the $45 entry fee, participants receive:
Official SF Mile bib number and chip timing.
Limited edition SF Mile race tee.
Post-race hydration and recovery snacks at the finish line.
Where does the race start and finish?
The race takes place entirely within the San Francisco Presidio. The course is point-to-point along Old Mason Street starting near and .
Is the course certified?
Yes, the SF Mile is a USATF-certified road mile course.
How is the race timed?
We use a professional chip timing system. Results will include both Gun Time and Net Time, though Gun Time is used for all podium and prize money awards.
What are the prizes?
The SF Mile features a deep prize purse for our Elite and Masters fields. In the Elite Races, the top three finishers will walk away with $1,500, $500, and $225 respectively. Our Masters (40+) category also features a cash podium of $150, $75, and $50 for the top three; please note that athletes must compete in the dedicated Masters waves to be eligible for these specific awards. For our Open waves, we are partnering with local vendors and sponsors to provide unique prize packages for heat winners. Stay tuned as we announce more partner awards in the coming weeks.
Is there a bag check?
Yes. A monitored bag check for participants will be located near the finish line along the Presidio waterfront. Please use the official race bag provided at packet pickup. All checked items must fit inside this bag. While the area is monitored, the SF Mile is not responsible for lost or stolen items. We recommend leaving valuables at home or in your vehicle.
Are there team categories?
No.
Can I run in the Open or Elite waves if I am 40 or older?
By default, runners 40 and older are placed in the Masters waves to compete for age-group prize money. If you prefer to run in an Open or Elite waves based on your goal time, please contact us at run@trialsofmilesracing.com. Note that only runners in the Masters waves are eligible for Masters-specific awards and prize purses.
When does registration open and close?
Registration will open May 1 and will close 48 hours before race day or once we hit capacity. There is no race day registration. The entry fee for all individual mile waves is $45.
Are paper registration forms available?
No. All registration must be completed online via our registration platform.
Is the race registration fee refundable?
There are no refunds for this event. We understand that injuries and schedule changes happen, but as a community-driven event, our operating expenses are committed well in advance of race day. Thank you for your understanding and for supporting the race.
Is there a Kids Run?
Yes. Kids aged 11 and younger are invited to participate in our dedicated Family/Community wave. To ensure a safe and fun experience on the Presidio roads, we require that all children under 11 be accompanied by a parent or guardian throughout the race.
Are there pre-determined locations to watch the race?
The SF Mile offers incredible vantage points along the entire course on Old Mason Street. The start line near the historic airfields and the finish line along the waterfront are the most popular spots, but the entire corridor provides an unobstructed view of the action. We encourage spectators to bring their own cowbells and energy to cheer on every wave.
Can I listen to music during the race?
For your safety and the safety of fellow runners on the road, we recommend competing without headphones or earbuds. Staying aware of your surroundings and the sounds of the race—especially the crowd support in the final quarter-mile—is part of the premier road mile experience.
What time should I be at the starting line?
We will call participants to assemble at the start on Old Mason Street 10 minutes before their assigned wave. For our Open waves, we ask that you self-seed at the line based on your target pace. Please be honest with your "honor code" seeding so everyone has a clear path on the road.
Where are the water stations?
There are no water stations along the course—it’s only a mile! However, hydration will be provided at both the start and the finish line area.
Does the race have pace groups?
Yes. To help you hit your goals on the Presidio pavement, we will have pacers in the Open waves targeting key milestones (6:00, 7:00, 8:00, and 9:00 minute goal paces). Look for the pacer signs at the start line to find your group.
Will there be restrooms on the course?
No restrooms are located on the actual one-mile course. However, there will be plenty of portable facilities located adjacent to the start line and in the festival area near the finish.
