Wharf to Wharf Race
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Wharf to Wharf Race
The Wharf to Wharf Race is a scenic 6 mile point-to-point running event held in Santa Cruz County. The course features gently rolling hills along seaside streets, beginning on Portola Drive in Santa Cruz and ending at the corner of Cliff and Wharf Road by the Capitola Wharf.
Participants follow a route that passes several coastal landmarks:
- 6 miles
- 3 miles (Virtual option available)
The first mile travels through the East Side of Santa Cruz on Portola Drive. The second and third miles wind past Twin Lakes Beach and the harbor area. The final half of the race hugs the coastline, passing surf spots such as The Hook and Pleasure Point, before a downhill finish into Capitola. The course is closed to vehicular traffic, and participants must maintain a pace of at least 17 minutes per mile.
The event utilizes a corral system to organize participants by pace. Entry is limited to 16,000 registrants, with registration typically opening in March. Registration categories include loyalty, local resident, and general windows.
Finishers who complete the course in person receive a refreshment packet and a commemorative T-shirt at Capitola Beach. Entertainment is provided along the route by the Road Show, which features over 50 live bands. For those unable to attend in person, a virtual 6-mile option allows participants to run a route of their choice and upload their results digitally. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
