Media Contact: David Perry
news@davidperry.com
Biofreeze named Official Pain Relief Partner of Bay to Breakers
#1 clinician-recommended* menthol topical pain relief brand to activate Pain Relief Zone on course during San Francisco’s Iconic Foot Race expecting 30,000 on May 17
SAN FRANCISCO, May 11, 2026 – Bay to Breakers, San Francisco’s legendary 12K footrace and one of the world’s most iconic running traditions, is welcoming Biofreeze as the Official Pain Relief Partner of the 2026 event, which is expecting 30,000 participants on May 17. The partnership will bring the brand’s signature cooling relief directly to runners on race day, including an on-course Biofreeze Pain Relief Zone at Mile 5, where the Biofreeze Cooling Crew will be ready to help participants cool the pain and keep moving toward the finish.
In addition to the race day activities, members of the Biofreeze team will also be at the Bay to Breakers Expo located at Sports Basement’s Stonestown location: Thursday, May 14 (3pm – 8pm), Friday, May 15 (1pm – 8pm) and Saturday, May 16 (10am – 6pm) as well as at the Finish Festival in Golden Gate Park.
The 2026 Bay to Breakers takes place Sunday, May 17, bringing together elite athletes, everyday runners, corporate teams, families, costumed participants and generations of San Franciscans for a citywide celebration that stretches from the bay through the heart of San Francisco. New this year, the race will finish inside Golden Gate Park, giving participants a fresh finale to one of the city’s most beloved traditions.
“Bay to Breakers embodies energy, joy, and community – where participants come together to move, celebrate, and experience one of the most iconic courses in the world,” said Phyllis Blanchard, Bay to Breakers / Motiv Sports. “Having Biofreeze onboard as our Official Pain Relief Partner is a natural fit. Whether runners are chasing a personal best, joining a corporate team, running with friends or simply unleashing their inner wild, Biofreeze will be there at Mile 5 to help them cool the pain and keep going.”
Many runners train hard for race day but may not dedicate enough time to recovery or addressing aches and pains head-on. Biofreeze, a trusted topical pain reliever, applies easily and uses cooling menthol to help provide fast-acting, powerful relief from muscle and joint aches and pains. Biofreeze is the #1 clinician-recommended* menthol topical pain relief brand.
“Biofreeze is proud to support runners where they need us most — on the course, in the moment and on the way to the finish line,” said Mark Pearson, Global Vice President, VMS and Wellness at Reckitt. “Bay to Breakers is one of the most spirited and inclusive races in the country, and we’re excited to bring the Biofreeze Pain Relief Zone to San Francisco to give participants cooling relief so they can make the most of race day.”
As part of the activation, runners can visit the Biofreeze Pain Relief Zone at Mile 5, where the Cooling Crew will be armed with Biofreeze spray to help cool the pain and keep participants moving. Biofreeze is available in a variety of formats, including Roll-On, Gel, Spray, Cream and Patches, giving athletes and active consumers options to meet their pain relief needs before, during and after training.
Biofreeze is a Motiv Sports portfolio-wide partner and is expanding its presence across endurance events to support runners and active lifestyles. The brand recently served as presenting partner of the Surf City Marathon, one of Southern California’s premier running events, which celebrated its 30th anniversary in 2026 with sold-out marathon and half-marathon distances.
*Based on a survey of Clinicians: chiropractors, podiatrists, physical therapists, massage therapists, retail pharmacists, and athletic trainers, of OTC topical pain relief products (Ipsos Clinician Survey)
About Bay to Breakers:
Bay to Breakers is San Francisco’s world-famous footrace, a one-of-a-kind 12K celebration that has been part of the city’s fabric since 1912. Known for its iconic cross-city course, inclusive spirit, creative costumes, elite competition and unforgettable community energy, Bay to Breakers welcomes runners, walkers, corporate teams, families and fans from across the Bay Area and around the world. Learn more at www.baytobreakers.com
About Biofreeze:
For more than 30 years, Biofreeze has provided cooling relief for sore muscles and joints, simple backaches, arthritis, sprains, strains and bruises. The cooling menthol in Biofreeze helps provide fast-acting, powerful relief from muscle and joint aches and pains. Biofreeze is available in multiple formats, including Roll-On, Gel, Spray, Cream and Patches. Learn more at www.biofreeze.com
About Motiv Sports:
Motiv Sports is a leading producer of active lifestyle events across the United States, creating memorable race experiences that connect participants, communities and brand partners through running, celebration and endurance. Its portfolio includes some of the country’s most distinctive endurance events, including Bay to Breakers and Surf City Marathon. Learn more at www.motivsports.com
###
