Alameda is hosting running events throughout the year, and registration is already open for some of the most popular races in 2024. The Hospital Foundation Spring 5K and 10K races that open the season on April 21, with races scheduled all the way through December.
“We were finally able to bring a full year of racing back to Alameda in 2023, and this year we have four events that showcase the diversity of the island,” said Outfront Endurance owner and race director Steve Ashbaker. “Alameda is such a beautiful place to run, and I am honored take part in bringing these great events to our community and showcasing all of the trails, views and venues the Island has to offer.”
Each of the events throughout the year benefits local organizations. Last year, the events collectively donated more than $31,000 to Alameda nonprofits.
Hospital Foundation Spring 5K and 10K
The Hospital Foundation Spring 5K and 10K event is a fundraiser for Alameda Hospital Foundation. It will feature a 10K and 5K loop along Bay Farm trails and conclude with a half-mile Kids Fun Run. The first half of the run is on Harbor Bay Parkway and along the bay trail. 10K runners will continue along the path to the Harbor Bay Club and turn around. The event will utilize the Harbor Bay Ferry Terminal, where there is plenty of parking and great views of the San Francisco skyline.
Parade 5K
Registration is also open for the extremely popular Parade 5K, which kicks off the historic Alameda 4th of July Parade. The event is limited to 1,300 participants and will definitely sell out, so register as soon as possible. The point-to-point 5K race, which has kicked off Alameda’s historic 4th of July Parade for 20 years, ends with a finish-line party featuring music, food, beer, and a view of the parade on Webster Street. The race benefits the Midway Shelter.
Island Running Festival
Bank of Marin’s Island Running Festival will be held August 16-18 this year, in partnership with the Alameda 10 Miler and Movers Collective. The full weekend of racing, walking, and celebrating the joy of movement, will start with Mile time trials under the sunset on Friday evening. Saturday will feature the Alameda 10-Miler and family 1-mile fun run. Sunday brings back the traditional 5K, 10K and Half-Marathon with a new course that will take runners on a journey through Alameda, old and new.
All of the events are anchored by a Health and Wellness expo presented by Alameda Health Systems. The Running Festival will start and end on historic Alameda Point, home of the former Alameda Naval Air Station. People of all running and fitness levels are welcome. A portion of the proceeds will benefit Alameda Education Foundation.
Midway Winter Event
The year-long island race series wraps up December 7 with the Winter Run to benefit Midway Shelter of Alameda. The event will utilize the same location and bay trails as the April event and will feature the same 10K, 5K and half-mile kids run. The course is flat, highlights beautiful San Francisco and Bay views, and will include the same expo vibe as the other races in the series, with music, food and beer at the finish line.
To learn more about these events or register to participate, visit the Outfront Endurance website.
