Big Sur Marathon Foundation
40 Years of Beautiful Races & Giving Back
BSMF Mission Statement
The Mission of the Big Sur Marathon is to enrich and empower our community through charitable giving and to inspire a passion for healthy lifestyles by creating memorable running experiences.
The Big Sur Marathon Foundation (BSMF) is a non-profit organization 501(c)3 that champions health, fitness, and community enrichment through world-class endurance events. Founded in 1986, and led by an active all-volunteer Board of Directors, the Foundation has been rooted in the belief that great things happen when people move with purpose – and when they give back.
Our Mission is simple: to enrich and empower our community through charitable giving and to inspire a passion for healthy lifestyles by creating memorable running experiences. Each year, the Big Sur International Marathon and the Monterey Bay Half Marathon events bring thousands of runners from around the world to the rugged, breathtaking coastlines of California’s Central Coast. But the real finish line is community impact. Since the inaugural race, we’ve proudly given back nearly $7 million to our local community through our annual donations to volunteer groups, supporting schools, nonprofits, public safety, and environmental organizations throughout Monterey County.
It takes a village — and ours is 2000 strong. These 2000 dedicated volunteers, and an 80-person Events Committee, help bring our events to life every year. They are the heart of what we do, helping us create unforgettable experiences for runners and visitors while keeping our events safe, smooth, and spirited.
Our Vision is making a significant contribution toward a healthier community. Beyond race day, we’re focused on year-round outreach. From youth and community fitness initiatives like our Palo Corona Cross Country Program, summer programming efforts with the Boys and Girls Club of America, the Monterey County Juvenile Hall Half Marathon to environmental stewardship and local giveaways. Most recently, we worked with the American Red Cross to create a Hands-Only CPR instructional video and offered onsite training at our BSIM and MBHM race expos. We hosted two BSMF-sponsored local blood drives and added Red Cross volunteers to our on-course medical bike teams.
Whether you run with us, donate to our cause, or volunteer your time with us, you’re part of something bigger – a movement that builds community, celebrates resilience, and invests in the future of the Central Coast.
