What Are the Qualification Requirements for the 2027 San Diego 100?

The 2027 San Diego 100 requires applicants to have completed an official 50-mile race within a specified time limit. The exact cutoff is listed in the race's qualification requirements, and the race also serves as a Western States 100 qualifier for those who finish within 32 hours.

Qualification Requirements for the 2027 Race

According to the race website, the qualification requirements to enter the 2027 event are as follows:

• Applicants must have completed an official 50-mile race in 13 hours or less (the site's text is cut off at "13 h," but this is the standard threshold referenced in the qualification section).

If you're unsure whether a specific 50-mile result counts, contact the race directly at [email protected] before registration opens.

Western States 100 Qualifying Pathway

The 2026 San Diego 100 has been selected as a qualifying race for the 2027 Western States 100. Here's how the pathway works:

Finishing the 2026 SD100 within 32 hours earns you entry into the lottery where Western States runners are selected. Note that qualifying for the lottery does not guarantee a spot—selection is random.

Key Dates and Registration for 2027

• Registration opens: January 1 at 12:01 AM
• Registration method: First-come, first-served
• Race date: Friday, April 30, 2027, starting at 0600
• Location: Mt Laguna Recreational Area, along the Pacific Crest, Noble Canyon, and Lake Cuyamaca Trails
• Event: 25th annual running

Special Entry Options

Beyond standard qualification, the race offers a few additional paths:

Scotty Mills Scholarships — Up to 2 free entries are awarded to people who best demonstrate Scott Mills' defining trait of giving back to their community, whether in running or otherwise. To apply, prepare a 2–3 paragraph write-up explaining why you or someone else deserves a free entry, and email it to [email protected] by December 28.

Active Military and First Responders — A 10% discount is available. Contact the race via email for a discount code if you qualify.

Runners over 60 — Those over age 60 may start one hour early. However, aid stations open at their usual times, so early starters should be prepared to self-support until the Cuyamaca Peak aid station.

What to Do Next

1. Confirm you have a qualifying 50-mile finish within the time limit.
2. Mark January 1 at 12:01 AM for registration—it's first-come, first-served.
3. If you're targeting Western States, plan to run the 2026 SD100 and finish under 32 hours.
4. For scholarship or discount inquiries, email [email protected] before the relevant deadlines.

For the most current details, check the 2027 Racebook once it's posted, and register through the Ultrasignup link on the race site.