Runners are Invited to Conquer Five Iconic Bay Area Races in 12 Months
San Francisco, CA – July 18, 2023 – Jumping Fences Inc., Giants Enterprises, and Run Local® Events are thrilled to introduce the exhilarating “Bay Area Challenge,” an extraordinary event that combines the excitement of completing five renowned races in the Bay Area over a 12-month period.
The “Bay Area Challenge” offers a unique and thrilling experience for both seasoned athletes and first-time runners. Participants can complete any distance in the San Francisco Marathon, Giant Race, Berkeley Half Marathon, Oakland Marathon, as well as the San Jose 408K & Half Marathon, though they must complete five events consecutively. Interested runners can join anytime to complete the five consecutive events challenge, virtual races will also qualify.
“The Bay Area Challenge is an exceptional opportunity for participants to immerse themselves in the spirit of the Bay Area, combining their love for running with iconic landmarks and breathtaking scenery,” said Lauri Abrahamsen, Director of Operations at Jumping Fences, Inc. “We invite local runners to take part in this extraordinary challenge and create unforgettable memories in our beautiful communities on both sides of the bridge and down to the 408.”
Beginning in ‘The City’ with the San Francisco Marathon, known for its captivating routes, challenging terrain, and vibrant city atmosphere, will kick off the Bay Area Challenge on July 22-23. Participants will run through San Francisco’s famous landmarks, including the Golden Gate Bridge, Fisherman’s Wharf, Golden Gate Park, and the Ferry Building, making this race a truly memorable experience.
The Giant Race, presented by Alaska Airlines, is the next up-to-the-plate, taking place on September 2-3. With both 5K and 10K race options, participants will enjoy breathtaking views of the San Francisco Bay Area and have the unique opportunity to finish the race on the field at Oracle Park, home of the San Francisco Giants.
The Berkeley “Bravey” Half Marathon, partnered with Alexi Pappas, takes place on November 19. Participants will race through the charming streets of Berkeley, passing iconic landmarks such as Telegraph Avenue, Sather Gate, and the Cal campus. The course, with its small-town feel and scenic views, offers a welcoming and inclusive experience for runners of all levels.
Run the Oakland Marathon, celebrating its 15th year this race will captivate runners with its multi-day celebration culminating in races March 15-17. Offering a variety of distances, including the Marathon, Half Marathon, 10K, and Total Health Dental Care 5K races, this event brings together the local community and is dedicated to promoting health and wellness while supporting local organizations.
Last but not least, the San Jose 408K & Half Marathon in the Spring. This south bay favorite will once again have participants “Race to the Row” with a unique finish line at Santana Row after weaving through San Jose landmarks and enjoying entertainment, including the famous Mariachi Mile.
Participants will have the opportunity to conquer the following races:
- San Francisco Marathon – July 21-23, 2023
- The Giant Race – September 2-3, 2023
- The Berkeley Half Marathon – November 19, 2023
- The Oakland Marathon – March 15-17, 2024
- The San Jose 408K & Half Marathon – Spring 2024
For media inquiries, please contact:
Giants Enterprises I Morgan Perry | [email protected] I 415.972.2200 ext. 1832
Jumping Fences, Inc | Shoshanna Howard | [email protected] | 303.968.8710
Run Local® Events | David Monico | [email protected] | 805.452.3580
About Jumping Fences, Inc:
Jumping Fences, Inc is one of the premier running event organizers in California, attracting thousands of participants from all corners of the globe to the San Francisco Marathon. Since its inception, the San Francisco Marathon has been committed to delivering exceptional race experiences while showcasing the city’s stunning beauty and unique culture. The event offers a variety of race distances to accommodate runners of all skill levels, from beginners to elite athletes.
About Giants Enterprises:
Giants Enterprises, the entrepreneurial arm of the San Francisco Giants dedicated to developing new ventures beyond the Major League Baseball franchise, hosts one-of-a-kind experiences at Oracle Park, throughout San Francisco, on San Francisco Bay and beyond. At the intersection of Sports, Entertainment, Hospitality, Events, Service and Tourism, Giants Enterprises has produced thousands of events over the last 20 years, including the 34th America’s Cup, delivering the Official Spectator Experiences and successfully commercializing the event for the first time in its 160-year history. In addition, Giants Enterprises has executed major concerts, international soccer matches, Rugby World Cup Sevens 2018, professional and college football games and The Giant Race series. One of the top hospitality, event, entertainment and sports consultancy teams in the world, Giants Enterprises operates more than 15 venues in and around Oracle Park including two luxury maritime vessels. For more information, visit www.giantsenterprises.com.
About Run Local® Events
Founded in 2012, Run Local’s mission is to inspire movement in your community™. It has produced events in the San Francisco Bay Area and throughout California, including the Oakland Running Festival (March), San Jose 408K & Half (Spring) and the Santa Barbara Half presented by HOKA & SB Independent 5K (November). Each of its events celebrate the local running community, artists and the unique diversity of each region. For more information, visit runlocalevents.com and also join us on social @runlocalevents.
