The Bay to Breakers footrace has been a mainstay of the San Francisco and U.S. running scene for over 100 years. Today, the event is known as one of the highlights of the running and social calendars, and attracts thousands of runners from across the country to compete and participate. The 12K race starts near the San Francisco Bay, close to the Embarcadero, winding its way through the city and finishing at the Great Highway, where the race earns its name from the waves, or breakers, that crash onto Ocean Beach.
The History of the Race
The race first took place in 1912, six years after San Francisco’s devastating 1906 earthquakes and subsequent fires. In a show of resilience and fortitude, the locals looked to create events to build morale among the people as part of the rebuilding process. The first race had 218 runners and 121 finishers, with a winning time of 44:10 minutes.
Today, the event has 50,000 participants from all walks of life in a real celebration of athleticism, participation, and humor. Competitors come from around the country and even overseas, however it’s still a distinctly local event that provides an insight into the city’s colorful culture.
The race has been voted one of the Top 10 Most Iconic Races in the U.S and, along with approximately 50,000 participants, it draws in 100,000 spectators every year.
Today, the event has 50,000 participants from all walks of life in a real celebration of athleticism, participation, and humor. Competitors come from around the country and even overseas, however it’s still a distinctly local event that provides an insight into the city’s colorful culture.
The race has been voted one of the Top 10 Most Iconic Races in the U.S and, along with approximately 50,000 participants, it draws in 100,000 spectators every year.
There's Nothing Conventional About Bay to Breakers
Anyone new to the race might be shocked to see the attire, or lack thereof, that some of the race competitors choose to wear. Competitors include serious athletes, families in casual wear, and some who even choose to run in the bare. It’s a truly eclectic race, which is partly what makes it such an iconic event.
