For the second consecutive year, Sutter Health served as presenting sponsor of the California International Marathon (CIM), celebrating a partnership that continues to energize the Sacramento region. This year’s event drew thousands of runners, volunteers and spectators, underscoring CIM’s role as a community-building tradition and one of the nation’s premier Boston Marathon qualifiers.
“We show up because movement is medicine and building healthy communities is at the heart of what we do,” said Dr. Deryk Jones, Sutter Health Orthopedics and Sports Medicine Service Line Chair. “Every runner we support is a reminder that staying active transforms lives. Our mission is to keep people moving, thriving, and doing what they love today and every day.”
Sutter’s presence stretched well beyond medical tents and cheer zones. At the CIM Expo, the Never Stop Health Zone offered hands-on demonstrations, wellness resources and interactive activities designed to inspire healthy habits among families, athletes and youth. The health system also deepened its support of the Sacramento Running Association’s youth programs, which bring fitness and wellness education to more than 20,000 local students annually.
For many, the marathon reflected the heartbeat of Sacramento: neighbors lining the streets, businesses welcoming visitors and nonprofits rallying behind runners.
“The California International Marathon is more than a race; it’s a celebration of resilience and community,” said Keegan Kirby, Sutter Health Vice President of the Orthopedics and Sports Medicine Service Line. “We’re not just a sponsor; we’re an active partner. By showing up with care teams, expertise, and encouragement, we help elevate what’s possible for athletes and for Sacramento.”
That commitment will continue to grow with Sutter Health’s newest major investment: the Advanced Orthopedics & Sports Medicine Care Complex slated to open in downtown Sacramento in 2027.
The 120,000-square-foot center will offer comprehensive orthopedic surgery, sports medicine with concussion, biologic regenerative medicine, cardiovascular fitness and women’s sports-specific health management. Dedicated orthopedic and sports medicine specific physical therapy specialist coupled with performance enhancement and conditioning experts will provide a professional environment to maximize an active person’s safe return to full activity. This facility will also house sports psychology and nutrition as well as state-of-the-art diagnostic services, creating a one-stop destination for athletes and active individuals across the region.
“As participation in events like CIM continues to rise, so does the need for advanced, accessible musculoskeletal care,” Dr. Jones added. “Sutter’s new facility will ensure our community can keep moving, keep healing and, most importantly, never stop.”
