As presenting sponsor and health partner of the California International Marathon, Sutter Health led the race’s medical teams and provided extensive support to safeguard runners’ health and safety. On race day, 106 medical professionals were stationed along the route, making Sutter’s support felt from the start in Folsom to the finish at the State Capitol.
The CIM was first held in 1983 and had 1,600 participants. Today, it attracts about 10,000 runners annually and is one of the leading U.S. marathons, renowned for being a top qualifier for the prestigious Boston Marathon.
Left to right: Dr. Christie Romo, Shannon Hall, JJ Bodiroga, Dr. David Lin, Dr. Chill Yee, Dr. Ryan Bennett
Volunteers included nurses, attending physicians, physical therapists, physician assistants, nurse practitioners, fellows, pharmacists and residents. Most were from Sutter, with additional support from local entities like Sacramento and Folsom fire departments, Sacramento Medical Reserve Corps, Community Emergency Response Team and American Medical Response. Throughout the race, medical staff provided injury assessments and treatments, addressing issues from blisters and muscle cramps to more serious conditions like dehydration and potential stress fractures.
“We are incredibly proud to have served as the Presenting Sponsor and Official Medical Team for this year’s California International Marathon,” said Dr. Christie Romo, a family medicine physician at Sutter Davis Hospital. “This event embodies strength, perseverance and community—values that align perfectly with Sutter Health’s mission. It was inspiring to see our dedicated team of medical professionals, volunteers and supporters come together to ensure every runner’s safety and well-being. We look forward to continuing this partnership and promoting health and wellness throughout the region.”
Over 100 Sutter employees, along with their friends and family members, also volunteered to cheer on runners, boost morale and distribute water. They led the “Never Stop Zone” at Sutter Medical Center, Sacramento, the last water station before the finish line. This area embodied Sutter’s “never stop” spirit, with volunteers inspiring runners to keep pushing forward, both on and off the course.
“Marathoners must have a ‘never stop’ attitude during a grueling 26 miles, and injuries and dehydration can happen to anyone,” said Scott Abbott, executive director of the Sacramento Running Association. “The droves of medical professionals provided and coordinated by Sutter Health who volunteered their Sunday to assist race participants showcased the organization’s sponsorship is about more than just financial support. It’s about the importance of assisting in the safety and well-being of every participant and community member.”
CIM’s Local Impact
The CIM is one of Sacramento’s largest annual sporting events, and this year’s race saw representation from 41 countries and all 50 states. The estimated economic impact for the region was around $15 million, including over $500,000 raised for local charities and community organizations.
Future Years
Sutter Health is thrilled to build on the success of this year’s CIM and is already planning for next year’s. As a health system with deep roots in Sacramento, we are committed to the community health and safety, as well as the economic opportunities and growth that events like the CIM bring.
Looking to coming years, we plan to deepen our partnership by expanding our presence at the CIM, growing volunteer participation and continuing to lead medical support efforts. Our commitment goes beyond race day—we’re focused on promoting year-round health and wellness programs that inspire our community to stay active and resilient.
