Frequently Asked Questions
There is no charge to change to a shorter distance, to change to a longer distance you will need to pay the difference in cost through this website.
Click on silhouette in the upper corner of this page. Sign in and select profile. You can also do this from your confirmation email if you still have that.
Log in and find this event under upcoming events.
If the event is not listed. Scroll down to where it says
Hey…where are all my events?
We found an unclaimed account associated with your email address. Click on go claim it.
Once you have gone through that process click on Manage Registration
In the menu items at the top of the page, click on "Transfer to Another Race" and the website will walk you through the process.
Contact us via email if you have any issues along the way.
Only if you have a copy of their ID, and a printed waiver that they have signed. Download a copy of that waiver at this link. And visit the bib pick up page for full details here.
Yes, new parking details for 2027 will be added soon.
A - Although there is no "standard" age at which a runner should get involved in the sport of running, we recommend runners be at least age 14 for the Marathon, 10 for the Half Marathon, 8 for the 10K, and 6 years old for the 5K. Ultimately, it is up to each parent or guardian to adjust our recommended age, higher or lower, depending upon their dependent's ability to participate in our event.
No. Pets, wagons, rollerblades, skateboards, scooters and bicycles of any kind are also NOT allowed on the course for safety concerns.
Yes, you are allowed to push a "jogger stroller" in any event. The child in the stroller does not need to be registered unless you want them to get their own shirt and/or medal.
We expect all events to be sold out by race day so please check our social media to find out if spots remain available and if so, in which events.
VIP packet pick up is available on race day for an extra fee, starting at 5:00am. You can add VIP pick up by logging in to your Run Sign Up account and paying for it as an "Add-On"
Yes. Free bag drop-off will be available in the "Hotel" building, near the start/finish line, to check your personal belongings. Pick-up will be available until 2pm. You must supply your own bag and should attach the gear check tag from your bib to that bag.
Yes, the Bakersfield Marathon is a USATF-certified, Boston Qualifying course. Certification for the new 2027 course is pending.
Yes, but we strongly discourage it. While USATF, the national governing body of the sport, has lifted its ban on headphones and similar devices, we recommend that runners keep only one earbud in to remain aware of race official instructions and emergency vehicles. In past years, some participants have missed course turns while wearing headphones and were disqualified, so staying alert is key to a successful race!
Yes! There are many accessible points around the course for spectators. Keep in mind that street closures will alter normal driving routes around Bakersfield during the race. We recommend seeing our City Impact Tab and Course Maps to find the best places to watch.
The Finish Line is reserved for REGISTERED PARTICIPANTS ONLY. Out of respect to the other runners, please tell friends and family that they can only cheer you on as you cross the finish line. They will only be able to congratulate you after you cross the finish line and receive your medallion behind the arch.
The Bakersfield Marathon is mostly flat with some hills at the beginning. Please check out the elevation profile on the course maps page for more details.
Absolutely! The Bakersfield Marathon is a community event that is geared towards everyone from experienced runners to walkers! The positive energy surrounding The Bakersfield Marathon can carry ANYONE across the finish line. Register today and commit to taking on a new challenge!
Bakersfield Marriott at the Convention Center is the official hotel partner for 2027. They will be adding a special rate for event participants soon.
All events are walker friendly and each distance has different pace requirements. Please visit the course maps page here for more details.
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