Wharf to Wharf Race
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Wharf to Wharf Race, Santa Cruz
The Wharf to Wharf Race is a limited-entry road race with a scenic 6-mile course along local seaside streets in Santa Cruz and Capitola. The course follows gently rolling hills and oceanfront sections, passing Twin Lakes Beach, the Harbor, and coastline near Pleasure Point, and finishes at the Capitola wharf area.
The event is capped at 16,000 in-person participants and offers an in-person option plus a virtual entry that allows participants to run a six mile route during the designated race week and submit results electronically. Registration is handled online and entry fees are non-refundable.
Race day operations include fenced start corrals with color coded bibs and volunteer staff to manage placements. For safety, the course is closed to vehicular traffic and prohibited items include pets and jogger strollers. Participants must maintain a minimum pace and the course reopens to traffic after the event window.
Logistics note three primary approaches for arriving: drop off at the start area, park nearer the start and use post-race shuttles back, or park in Capitola so the car is at the finish and take a pre-race shuttle to the start. There is no gear check at the start.
Post-race provisions include a beach pickup area for a giftpak and T shirt and an awards presentation with cash prizes and other honors. The Road Show features live music along the course with more than fifty bands. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
