This spring’s marathon season highlights how running continues to transform from an elite sport into a celebration for all abilities.
The Boston Marathon maintained its 128-year tradition of competitive excellence, requiring qualifying times from its participants. Meanwhile, 400 ambitious runners attempted the Boston to Big Sur Challenge just six days later, tackling both marathons in one week. The Big Sur International Marathon brought together 10,000 runners to California’s Highway 1, where scenic views of redwoods and crashing waves made the challenging terrain worthwhile.
San Francisco’s Bay to Breakers took a completely different approach, transforming the city’s streets into America’s most colorful 12K race. From competitive runners to costumed participants, including centipede teams of 13 or more runners connected by bungee cords, the 113-year-old event proved that running doesn’t always have to be serious.
Whether proving yourself at Boston, losing yourself in Big Sur’s beauty, or finding the fun in San Francisco’s wild and wacky race, running has become more inclusive than ever before. From elites to everyday runners, there’s truly a distance for everyone.
