Group run schedule
When to Show Up
Race-day registration typically 8:00-8:45 am with main race start around 9:00 amExact times vary by event
CommunityFree
DSE Runners
San Francisco, California
DSE Runners (Dolphin South End Runners) hosts low-cost races nearly every weekend of the year at scenic San Francisco locations including Golden Gate Park, Crissy Field, and Lake Merced. The club welcomes runners and walkers of all ages and abilities, with distances typically ranging from 2 to 6+ miles.
About This Club
DSE Runners - short for Dolphin South End Runners - puts on low-cost races nearly every weekend of the year at some of San Francisco's best outdoor spots: Golden Gate Park, Crissy Field, Lake Merced, and occasionally out to Brisbane, San Bruno, and Pacifica.
They welcome runners and walkers of all ages and abilities, and distances run from about 2 miles up to 6-plus. If you want actual race experience without the $80 registration fee or the six-month training plan, this is worth knowing about.
Highlights
- Unlimited $5 drop-ins with membership
- Access to $100 Gold membership for unlimited annual races
- Finisher ribbons
- Snacks at races
- Scenic course locations
Who It Suits
This suits anyone who wants low-pressure, low-cost racing on a regular basis - whether you are building toward something bigger, keeping yourself accountable on weekends, or just want a finish line at the end of a Sunday run. If you are looking for a coached training group or a mid-week social run, DSE is not that.
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What a Run With Them Is Like
These are organized races, not group training runs, so you show up, register, and run a real course with a start and finish. Terrain varies week to week - some events are flat, fast loops on road or waterfront paths, others are hilly or cross-country style. Kids races are around a half mile, and adult distances go up to 10K and beyond. Walkers are genuinely welcome, not just tolerated.
Distance2-6+ miles, 5K, 10K, Kids races around half mile
TerrainRoad courses in city parks, Waterfront paths, Trail and cross-country style courses, Mixed terrain from flat fast loops to hilly routes
Post-runSnacks and finisher ribbons provided
Your First Run
You do not need to pre-register or sign up in advance. Show up to whichever race location is on the schedule, get there between 8:00 and 8:45 am for registration, and pay a $10 drop-in fee in cash or PayPal.
The main race starts around 9:00 am, though exact times can vary by event, so check the schedule before you go. Being new and alone is normal here - these events happen every weekend and draw a wide range of people. You will finish, get a ribbon, and there are snacks.
Something to train for
Upcoming Races in San Francisco
29 upcoming races in San Francisco. Having one on the calendar is the easiest way to turn a few group runs into a habit.
Sat, Aug 15, 2026Run for PB& J 5K/10K/13.1 SAN FRANCISCO San Francisco, CAFrom $30Register Sat, Aug 15, 2026Bagel Run 5K/10K/13.1 SAN FRANCISCO San Francisco, CAFrom $30Register Sun, Aug 16, 2026The SF Mile San Francisco, CAFrom $45Details
See all San Francisco races
Common Questions About DSE Runners
How much does it cost just to try it once?
$10 drop-in, paid on the day in cash or PayPal. No membership needed for your first race.
Is it worth becoming a member?
If you go more than twice a year, yes. A $20 annual membership drops your drop-in fee to $5 per race. The $100 Gold membership gets you unlimited races for the year with no per-race fee.
Can I walk the course instead of running?
Yes. They say walkers are welcome at these events.
Do they run in bad weather?
They hold races nearly every weekend of the year, which in San Francisco means they are not waiting for perfect conditions. Check their schedule or contact them directly if a specific event is in question.
Are there races for kids?
Yes - kids races are roughly a half mile. Children 12 and under race free, and teens 13-17 can get a membership for $10 a year.
Where this comes from: Club details come from each club’s own channels (their site, Meetup, Strava and social posts) and are checked by hand. Group runs move, so confirm the meeting spot on the club’s latest post before you head out. Last updated July 2026.