The OC Marathon & Half Marathon Elite Program
Elite Athlete Eligibility Standards
The OC Marathon supports nationally ranked athletes, while highlighting their skills on one of the most scenic Southern California race courses. Elite athletes are invited based on previous personal records (which must be verified) or national rankings. There is a minimum standard that MUST be met to be considered as an elite. Qualifying athletes are eligible to receive complimentary race entry, an elite bib number, and prize money for course records or if the athlete meets a USATF Qualifying Standard. To be considered as an elite at the O.C. Marathon, athletes need to provide proof of valid race results meeting the qualifying marks from the past two years. Eligibility is at the discretion of the OC Marathon staff.
Full Marathon Requirements
To Be Considered for Male Full Marathon Elite Entry and Seeded Bib Number: 2:35 or Faster
To Be Considered for Female Full Marathon Elite Entry and Seeded Bib Number: 3:00 or Faster
Half Marathon Requirements
To Be Considered for Male Half Marathon Elite Entry and Seeded Bib Number : 1:10 or Faster
To Be Considered for Female Half Marathon Elite Entry and Seeded Bib Number : 1:20 or Faster
Prize Money
In 2018, we modified our prize money to encourage faster times and reward performance.
Full Marathon -
$2,500 bonus to beat course record (Men 2:22:45/Women 2:37:43)
$1,000 bonus if meet Olympic A Standard
Half Marathon -
$1,500 Bonus to beat course record (Men 1:05:29/Women 1:15:29
$250 bonus if meet Olympic B Standard
If you qualify, please complete the Elite Application Form.
A full running resume, photo and proof of valid race qualifying race results will need to be uploaded.
USATF Rules of Competition
As an event sanctioned by USA Track and Field (USATF), the marathon, half marathon, and 5K races will be conducted according to USATF Rules of Competition.