Happy Bay to Breakers! If you were in San Francisco this past weekend, you may have seen giant herds of runners in fun costumes or tied together with a bungee cord. Though some of the costumes might be regular San Francisco wackiness, a lot of it came from San Francisco’s annual footrace, Bay to Breakers. 

Having derived its name from its historic route from Embarcadero to the Great Highway and Ocean Beach, Bay to Breakers is one of the longest-running footraces in the world, as it continues to modernize and find new ways to excite the community. The race started as a way to lift up the spirit of the city after the 1906 earthquakes and, though it dipped to only 50 participants during the Second World War, has continued to strive towards that aim. In 1986, the race was recognized globally as the largest footrace, though its popularity has steadily declined since then. 

If you are looking to participate in the race, there are many ways to enjoy the experience. If you are excited about running the race, there are 12 and 15-kilometer-long races. All ages, abilities, and nationalities are welcome and encouraged to participate in the event – it is a wonderful opportunity to show San Francisco’s incredible diversity! Otherwise, there are relays to participate in, with tortilla tosses and other fun games, and the iconic centipede race. In the centipede race a group of people tied together at the ankles by a bungee cord or other safe device competing in the race. It might be a good time to start looking for a group if you plan to race as a centipede next year! Also, if you aren’t interested in running the race, there are many viewpoints along the way where you can watch the runners go by. 

Next year, Bay to Breakers will be hosted on May 18. Though this might seem very far away, it is important to register before it fills up. You can save up to 55% by signing up within the next few weeks, and you give yourself time to train for the run and plan your costume! Visit the Bay to Breakers website here for more information and to sign up.

Happy running and we hope you enjoyed this Bay to Breakers!

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