Running Fence Run
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The Running Fence Run
On September 12, 2026, a limited-field running event takes place in the Sonoma County hills near Bloomfield. The event marks the 50th anniversary of the 1976 Running Fence art installation (September 10–24, 1976) and the 2,516th anniversary of the Battle of Marathon (September 12, 490 BC).
The courses use county asphalt roads rather than private ranch land. The original Running Fence was installed for two weeks and is no longer on the hills; only a small section of fence will be installed at the start and finish in Bloomfield for photo opportunities. The full 24.5-mile installation will not be recreated. Historically, only one person attempted the cross-country route and several runners used the public roads where the Running Fence was viewed.
Entry is limited to a maximum of 36 runners in each distance per agreement with the California Highway Patrol. Distances offered are:
- 26.2 miles marathon
- 10K
- 5K
Race packet distribution is scheduled at Sports Basement in Santa Rosa on September 11. The event description connects the running routes and distances with the historical 1976 installation and the classical marathon tradition, while noting the course and field-size restrictions. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
