Bay to Breakers Surges as One of America’s Largest Races
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David Perry & Associates, Inc/ (415) 676-7007 / news@davidperry.com
Bay to Breakers Surges as One of America’s Largest Races,
Driven by Strong Growth, Corporate Teams,
and San Francisco Momentum
Iconic Foot Race is Sunday, May 17, in San Francisco
27 March 2026 – SAN FRANCISCO, CA: Bay to Breakers, San Francisco’s most iconic footrace and one of the oldest continuously run races in the United States, is experiencing a powerful resurgence, with more than 30,000 registrations expected in 2026 and sustained growth over the past three years. The race—an annual highlight of Bay Area culture—returns on Sunday, May 17 for its 114th running. Originally launched in 1912 to mark San Francisco’s resilience following the 1906 Earthquake and Fire, Bay to Breakers continues to reflect the city’s enduring energy and creativity.
Participation has grown steadily, with approximately 20% year-over-year growth over the past three years, mirroring a broader national resurgence in running events and community-based experiences.
“What we’re seeing with Bay to Breakers is part of a much larger story—running culture in the U.S. is not only back, it’s expanding in exciting ways,” said Crystian Kumnick of Motiv Sports. “For our sponsors and partners, that growth represents a powerful opportunity to connect with highly engaged audiences. Bay to Breakers delivers something uniquely San Francisco—energy, creativity, and scale—and that translates directly into meaningful brand impact.”
A key driver of that growth has been the expansion of the Corporate Teams Program, developed in collaboration with the San Francisco Chamber of Commerce and designed to deepen business engagement while supporting local impact initiatives.
Corporate teams have become an increasingly important part of the race experience—bringing companies together for team-building, visibility, and community contribution. Notably, a portion of proceeds from Corporate Teams supports YesSF, the Chamber-led initiative focused on innovation and downtown revitalization.
As highlighted in last year’s YesSF partnership announcement, Corporate Teams not only strengthen workplace culture but also directly contribute to San Francisco’s future through initiatives that support sustainable innovation and economic vitality.
“Bay to Breakers is not just a race—it’s a platform for connection, for business engagement, and for giving back,” Kumnick added. “The growth of our Corporate Teams Program is a clear signal that companies see real value in showing up, participating, and aligning with San Francisco’s continued momentum.”
Founded in 1912, Bay to Breakers remains more than a race—it is a citywide celebration. From elite athletes to costumed participants, the event brings together tens of thousands across neighborhoods, communities, and generations.
The race’s resurgence also reflects broader optimism around San Francisco’s recovery and re-emergence. As participation grows, so too does its impact across tourism, hospitality, and local business sectors—making Bay to Breakers an increasingly valuable platform for sponsors, partners, and civic engagement.
With registrations trending upward and corporate participation expanding, Bay to Breakers is once again solidifying its place among the premier running events in the United States—while staying true to the spirit that has defined it for more than a century.
About Bay to Breakers:
Since 1912, Bay to Breakers has been a quintessential San Francisco experience—uniting runners, walkers, and revelers from around the world for a one-of-a-kind race from the Embarcadero to Ocean Beach. Organized by Motiv Sports, the race celebrates San Francisco’s unique culture while supporting community organizations and local causes.
About Motiv Sports:
Motiv Sports is a North American leader in mass participation events, creating and delivering world-class endurance experiences that inspire, challenge, and connect communities. Its portfolio includes Bay to Breakers, the Long Beach Marathon, and Surf City Marathon, among others. Through its events, Motiv engages participants of all fitness levels while delivering high-impact platforms for brands, partners, and communities.