Bay to Breakers Race : Googlers on the Run

Bay to Breakers is the oldest consecutively run footrace in the world. The 12K race was established in 1912 as a way to boost the spirit of San Francisco after the devastation of the 1906 earthquake. Held on New Year’s Day – and called the San Francisco Cross City Race – there were slightly less than 200 participants that first year.

Over the years Bay to Breakers has grown in size to become one of the largest footraces in the entire world. In the new millennium an estimated 70,000 to 80,000 participants have come out each year to carry on the tradition. In the true spirit of San Francisco the race is a celebration for everyone. Packs of Elvis’, hoards of genies, mobile Tiki Huts, and thousands of other costumed participants join with families, weekend runners and people just out for a stroll. Today Bay to Breakers is one of the oldest and most beloved civic festivals in the world.

Google Blog reports “Today’s 94th race included more than 40 Googlers running as the “We’re Feeling Lucky” team. We ran for fun and to raise money for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. Our “Lucky” Team “donned special T-shirts emblazoned with the hurdles doodle from the 2004 Summer Olympics on the front, and individual letters that collectively spell GOOOOOOOGLE on the back. Faster runners got the G-O tees, and well, the rest of us got O-O-G-L-E.”

Standard Registration (April 16 through May 11) charges were $34.50 for Adults and $29.50 for Children under 18. Last minute registrations were open online from 13-15 May 2005. The 9th Annual race was held on 15 May 2005.