bay to
breakers
centipedes

May 19, 2024

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Centipedes Open on Nov. 15th

The Centipedes

The Bay to Breakers is the birthplace of the Centipede World Championships.

In 1978 centipede founders and pioneers of running fun, the U.C. Davis Aggies Track Club, were named the first ever World Centipede Running Champions, finishing as a unit 130th overall out of a total of 16,000 race entrants. Centipedes have been a race staple ever since.

The 2018 race marked the 40th anniversary of the hallowed beginnings of one of the greatest traditions in all of racing. 

Centipede Details

Groups of 13 to 15 runners will run the full 12k course (or full 15k course if you’re doing the Breakers Bonus) together linked by a bungee cord, or any other safe mechanism.

THE CENTIPEDE RULES

Each centipede member registers separately.

Each centipede must consist of at least 13 runners plus one floater who runs alongside, substituting for runners who lose a shoe, drop off the pace or need to make a pit stop.

There can only be a maximum of 15 centipede team members.

A centipede may be made of any material that an organization, school or club deems appropriate. However, try to keep it light, flexible and well-ventilated. Allow at least four feet between individual leg segments.

Twinkie feelers on the head of each segment are required.

The final segment of each centipede must wear a stinger of appropriate design and toxicity.

Each segment must be filled with a registered centipede athlete – each runner must register individually.

During the entire competition, all required body segments must be present in the centipede body. If a segment is to be exchanged, the replacement must give the centipede’s official password to exclude unauthorized participants.

To re-enter the centipede, a displaced runner must catch up with the body and resume his original segment, which the floater has been occupying. The official password and secret acknowledgment must be repeated each time. If the floater makes a permanent substitution, no other substitutions are allowed.

A Lenichi Turn, a 360-degree turn made famous by two Eastern European centipede runners (Oscar and Igatoo Lenichi) in the 18th century, must be executed at Lindley Meadow in Golden Gate Park just beyond the 6-mile point. The Lenichi Turn must not interfere with other runners.

All centipede members must start together, at the start line, as well as cross the finish line with connection intact.

why people love

It’s a not running race, but a festival!

"This is one of the funnest race in the world. It’s a not running race, but a festival. So, you can run, walk, and drink! I highly recommend you if you want to have a fun during running. You’ll be sure to want to join the race again!"

the pure joy of a 12K long party

"This race is more about the journey than the finish line. It’s people watching, crazy costumes, and the pure joy of a 12K long party! Highly recommended for the experience and memories!"

a great time start to finish

"By far this has been my favorite race I’ve done! Bay to Breakers has it all. The runners are there to party and have a great time start to finish. The shirt is great, the medals are fantastic. Hayes hill is no joke. But the crowds along the course cheered everyone on. It was so much fun. Well organized, fun course. This race is a must!"

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