Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Event Schedule

  • 8:00 a.m. – Walkers

  • 8:15 a.m. – Masters, Men

  • 8:30 a.m. – Masters, Women

  • 8:45 a.m. – Open, Men

  • 9:00 a.m. – Open, Women

  • 9:30 a.m. – Women’s Elite Race

  • 9:45 a.m. – Men’s Elite Race

Please arrive at least 45 minutes before your scheduled start time and stage in Depot Park prior to your wave.

Where is the race located?

Pre-race staging will be at Depot Park, 119 Center St, Santa Cruz, CA 95060.

The start line will be near the intersection of Pacific Ave. & Beach St.

All runners should plan to check in and stage in Depot Park prior to their designated start time.

Where should I park?

We strongly encourage parking in downtown Santa Cruz parking garages or street parking near the course.

If you’d like to make a full day out of it, Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk parking is also available and a great option for spending time in Santa Cruz after the race.

How do race waves work?

Race waves are self-selected on race day.

When you arrive, simply line up in the wave that best matches your expected finish time. There is no need to select a wave during registration.

Are there cutoff times?

  • Overall course cutoff: 25 minutes (walkers included)

  • Masters (40+): 18 minutes

  • Open: 18 minutes

  • Elite: Sub-6 minutes

Please be honest when choosing your wave so everyone has a safe and enjoyable race experience.

What are the race divisions?

  • Elite: Sub-6-minute mile for women; Sub-5-minute mile for men

  • Open: Under 40 years old

  • Masters: 40 years old and over

  • Walkers: 25-minute cutoff

Where and when is bib pickup?

Santa Cruz Running Company, 1664 Soquel Dr, Santa Cruz, CA 95065
Saturday, March 14 from 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM

Race-day bib pickup may be limited.

Can I register on race day?

Yes, race-day registration will be available if space allows. We strongly recommend registering in advance, as waves may sell out.

When should I arrive on race day?

Please arrive at least 45 minutes before your scheduled start time.

If you still need to pick up your bib, plan to arrive 60 minutes early to allow time for parking, bib pickup, and staging.

Where do I stage before my race?

Depot Park Address: 119 Center St, Santa Cruz, CA 95060

Please listen for announcements and follow volunteer instructions.

Are strollers or animals allowed?

For safety reasons:

  • No strollers

  • No animals (including dogs)

Will there be medals or prizes?

Prizes will be awarded to the top 5 finishers in each competitive division.

More prize details coming soon.

Who should I contact with additional questions?

Email: Director@santacruzmile.com
Social Media: Find us on Instagram or Facebook @TheSantaCruzMile

We’ll be happy to help and will also post important updates on social media.

See you there!