Elite and Subseed Athletes

The San Francisco Marathon invites athletes to apply for elite or subseed status for our Full or 2nd Half Marathon ONLY. The San Francisco Marathon will distribute complimentary or discounted entries based on past performance.

Elite and Subseed Athlete bib placements are limited and these participants will receive placement in the front of the pack at the beginning of the race. The requirements and applications for Elite and Subseed registration are explained below and involve a thorough check of past performances. Please allow 2 to 4 weeks for processing of your application.

Please note 5k and 10k times cannot be used as qualifiers for Elite or Subseed entries.

Elite Athlete Requirements and Applications

The first 250 athletes that meet the elite qualifying standards receive complimentary entries. No promos can be used for Elite registration. Elite Athletes will also receive placement at the front of the race. Times must have been achieved in the past 2 years to be considered.

Elite Athlete Qualifying Times

• Men: Full Marathon: Sub 2:40 / Half Marathon: Sub 1:18
• Women: Full Marathon: Sub 3:00 / Half Marathon: Sub 1:28
• Non-Binary+: Full Marathon: Sub 3:00 / Half Marathon: Sub 1:28

Subseed Athlete Requirements and Applications

The first 250 athletes that meet the sub-seed qualifying standards receive discounted entries. No promos can be used for Subseed registration. Subseed Athletes will also receive placement just behind the Elite Athletes at the beginning of the race. Times must have been achieved in the past 2 years to be considered.

Subseed Athlete Qualifying Times

Additional questions? Please visit our help center.

Apply for elite or subseed status for The 2023 San Francisco Marathon