As the sun rises on Sunday, more than 10,000 runners are set to take part in the 16th annual Oakland Marathon. This iconic event not only features a 26.2-mile marathon but also includes a variety of other races, such as a half-marathon, 10K, and a 5K race. Many participants, including first-time half-marathoners, are eagerly anticipated as they take to the streets.
The six broad events will kick off on Friday with a two-day Health & Wellness Expo, hosted at the historic Henry J. Kaiser Center for the Arts. The expo is free to the public and will feature various booths promoting health and fitness. Additionally, Saturday will see a fun run for children, where young participants can engage in varying distances based on their age group. The marathon also serves a philanthropic purpose, as proceeds benefit the Eat. Learn. Play. Foundation, established by Stephen and Ayesha Curry.
All races are scheduled to start and finish on Lake Merritt Boulevard, offering participants a scenic route that winds its way through well-loved areas of Oakland, including downtown, Grand Lake, Piedmont Avenue, West Oakland, and other neighborhoods. To ensure the safety of runners, volunteers, and attendees, several roads will be closed to vehicle traffic for several hours, commencing at 6 a.m. on race day.
Road Closures and Traffic Management
In light of the marathon, a significant number of streets will be temporarily closed. On Sunday, Lake Merritt Boulevard will be closed from 14th Street to 1st Avenue from 1 a.m. to 5 p.m. Furthermore, additional closures will be enacted from 6 a.m. through various times throughout the morning, affecting multiple segments of East 12th Street, Foothill Boulevard, and Piedmont Avenue among others. A comprehensive map detailing these closures and alternative detours is available on the Oakland Marathon website.
Parking Information
Those planning to attend the Oakland Marathon should note that there is no official parking designated for entrants. However, the event organizers recommend the Alcopark Parking Garage, situated at 165 13th Street, which will be open from 5:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. and charge a flat rate of $7. Metered parking is also available for attendees throughout downtown Oakland, particularly in the Lake Merritt area. Take note that there will be no public parking at the Oakland Museum of California on race morning.
Public Transportation Options
While BART is a popular public transportation option, it opens at 8 a.m. on Sundays, which might pose challenges for those participating in the marathon. The closest BART station to the start and finish lines is Lake Merritt station. For a more efficient arrival, event organizers suggest consulting the AC Transit and BART trip planners for a well-structured travel itinerary on race day.
Emphasizing Community and Wellness
The Oakland Marathon is not just a race; it’s an event steeped in community participation, health awareness, and family engagement. With thousands of runners and spectators expected, this marathon celebrates not only athleticism but also community spirit. Its association with the Eat. Learn. Play. Foundation underscores the vital role of health and wellness in the lives of Oakland residents. This marathon serves as a reminder of the importance of physical activity and community support.
As excitement builds leading up to race day, participants and supporters are encouraged to review the available resources and plans for a seamless experience. Whether you’re a first-time runner or a seasoned marathon veteran, the 16th Oakland Marathon promises to be an unforgettable journey through some of the most cherished areas of the city.
