What Special Options or Discounts Are Available for San Diego 100 Runners?

Updated

The San Diego 100 offers three runner-specific accommodations: a one-hour early start for runners over 60, up to two free entries through the Scotty Mills Scholarships, and a 10% discount for active military and first responders. Each has its own conditions, and the early start in particular comes with a self-support requirement that runners should plan around.

Early Start for Runners Over 60

Runners over the age of 60 are allowed to start one hour before the official race start.

The important catch: aid stations still open at their usual times. That means a runner taking the early start will be on the course before any support is available and must be prepared to self-support until the Cuyamaca Peak aid station.

Practical implications:

  • Carry enough water, calories, and layers to cover the gap between your early start and the first staffed aid station.
  • Do not assume course markings, volunteers, or other runners will be present in that first hour.
  • The race notes that more details will appear in the 2027 Racebook once posted, so confirm the exact logistics there before race day.

Scotty Mills Scholarships: Up to 2 Free Entries

The Scotty Mills Scholarships award up to two free race entries each year. They honor Scott Mills, the former longtime race director of San Diego 100, and are given to people who best demonstrate his defining trait: giving back to their community, whether in running or otherwise.

How to apply:

  1. Write a 2–3 paragraph explanation of why you — or someone else — deserve a free entry.
  2. Email it to [email protected].
  3. Submit no later than December 28.

This is a nomination-style process, so you can put forward another runner rather than only yourself.

10% Discount for Active Military and First Responders

Active military members and first responders qualify for a 10% discount on registration.

To claim it:

  1. Email the race at [email protected].
  2. Request a discount code.
  3. Apply the code when you register.

The race states the discount is limited to those who genuinely qualify — if you are not active military or a first responder, do not attempt to claim it.

Quick Comparison

Option Who Qualifies What You Get Key Condition
Early start Runners over 60 Start 1 hour early Self-support until Cuyamaca Peak aid station
Scotty Mills Scholarship Anyone demonstrating community service Up to 2 free entries 2–3 paragraph write-up by December 28
Military/first responder discount Active military and first responders 10% off Email for a code; verification applies

What to Do Next

  • Over 60 and considering the early start: plan your self-supported window to Cuyamaca Peak before committing, and check the 2027 Racebook when it is posted.
  • Interested in a scholarship: prepare your write-up and send it to [email protected] well before December 28.
  • Military or first responder: email for your discount code before registering so you can apply it at checkout.

For anything unclear, the race directs runners to the same address: [email protected].