ING Bay To Breakers 12K
History
At 5:13am on April 18, 1906, a devastating earthquake – that would become one of
history’s most notorious natural disasters - rocked San Francisco. The
subsequent fire and destruction were unimaginable, and many feared the City
would be gone forever. But San Franciscans, displaying their typical fortitude
and innovation, immediately began rebuilding the city and producing events to
lift their morale. One of those events, the Cross City Race – known better today
as ING Bay to Breakers – was first run in 1912 as a precursor to the world-class
athletic events planned for the 1915 Panama Pacific International Exposition.
There were less than 200 participants that first year and Robert Jackson Vlught
was the first person to ever cross the finish line, with a finishing time of
44:10.
Since then, Bay to Breakers has prevailed as a testament to San Francisco’s
uniqueness and audacity. Each year, the race is a glorious celebration of the
human spirit – a giant wave of athleticism, fun, frivolity, and determination
flowing across the City from the bay to the ocean. It is one of the largest
footraces in the world with 65,000 + participants and 100,000 + spectators
annually. As the race grew in size it even set a Guinness Book record, with
110,000 participants, in 1986. The course is challenging and beautiful, and
consistently attracts top athletes in the sport. But it isn't just a race for
the serious runner.
In the true spirit of San Francisco the race is a celebration for everyone.
Thousands of costumed participants join with families, weekend runners and
people just out for a stroll. As they make their way through the heart of San
Francisco they are cheered by thousands of spectators and live music along the
course. They also have to dodge the "spawning salmon" who each year make their
way from the Finish line, through the masses, to the Start.
Throughout its long history Bay to Breakers has been a showplace for the City's
irrepressible color and its affection for eclectic traditions. Although runners
come from across the country and all points of the globe, the race is still
quintessential San Francisco and a true reflection of life between the breakers
and the Bay.
