Since 2012, Youth Dipsea Training Runs has been the most popular youth trail running program in Marin. We are happy to announce that we have rallied the coaches and will be returning for another great season of trail running beginning March 10th.

This year team spots will be limited so please sign up early.

We will plan on running the Dipsea Race on June 9th, but runners are welcome and encouraged to participate in the program even if not running the Dipsea

What is the Dipsea?

The Dipsea is a historic Marin trail race dating back to 1905. The race spans approximately 7 miles of steep terrain and single-track trail beginning in downtown Mill Valley and finishing in Stinson Beach. There are a limited number of entries, and all runners may not be accepted, though all are welcome to participate in the youth training runs. Find out more about the historic Dipsea Race at Dipsea.org.

When

Sunday Mornings @ 10am

March 10th – June 9th

Where

Youth Training Runs begin on Sunday, March 10 at Ross Common.  Training runs will continue each Sunday at a different Marin trailhead until the Dipsea race on June 9th. Participants will be emailed weekly with details of the upcoming run. Training will include a combination of longer training runs with the possibility of races if races become available during the season.

The Central Marin team will mostly explore trails in the Fairfax Area.

The Southern Marin team will mostly explore trails in the Mill Valley Area.

Who

2024 Youth Dipsea Training runs are intended for runners ages 8-14. All ability levels are welcome so long as they can make it off each trail still smiling.

(Click here for our team training for Teens and Adults.)

Coaches

Avid trail athlete and coach Lauren Murray will be leading the Southern Marin team.

Jamie Rivers is a recently retired pediatric nurse and two-time Dipsea Winner. Jamie has 17 Dipsea black shirts and is the only female to ever win the Dipsea, Double Dipsea, and Quad Dipsea Races. Jamie has been coaching the Youth Dipsea Training Program since 2017

Roy Rivers is Jamie’s husband and the only other person to ever win the Dipsea, Double Dipsea, and Quad Dipsea Races.  Roy has also been coaching the Youth Dipsea Training Program since 2017

Jacob Potere is an accomplished NCAA XC athlete and two time Dipsea finisher. Jacob has been coaching since 2021. After completing the Boston Marathon in 2024, he will be chasing his first Dipsea black Shirt

Levi Webb is Head Running Expert at Pinnacle Running. Levi has been coaching runners of all ages for 10 years and founded Marin Youth Trail Runs in 2012 to benefit the young runners in the local community. Levi Will be coaching the Central Marin Team.

Registration

Registration is limited to a first come first serve.

 $450

We anticipate reaching maximum capacity this year. Runners registering after the first 50 will be placed on the waitlist.

Use the “Register” button at top of the page to register.

(not the “sign up” Button)

FAQs

Does registration include entry into the Dipsea Race?

No. Participants must register for the Dipsea Race separately. Runners have a very good chance of getting into the race so long as you submit your application from Marin County on the day it becomes available. Please visit the dipsea.org website for full registration details.

Do I need to plan to run the Dipsea to participate?

No, the Dipsea is just a fun end-of-season goal. Runners are encouraged to join our weekly runs whether or not they are planning on participating in the Dipsea.

What if I am not a strong runner?

Participants need to be able to walk/run at least 4 miles over 2 hours and make it off the trail still smiling. If you do NOT like running, exercise, and the outdoors, this is definitely not the right group for you.

This sounds hard, is it going to be hard?

Yes, trail running is challenging, that is one of the best things about it. If for some reason you feel you are not being challenged, please talk to a coach and we will give you some ways to challenge you more.

What if it rains?

Make sure to wear a waterproof jacket.