Photos of the best costumes at San Franciscos Bay to Breakers race – SFGATE

San Francisco runs at a different speed than other cities. It also usually runs in costumes.

Nearly every year since 1912, the city has celebrated Bay to Breakers, a 12-kilometer run that begins at Howard and Main streets and concludes at Ocean Beach. But like most San Francisco traditions, there’s a whimsical element involved, with the actual run taking a backseat to antics and partying along the route and a fashion show of costumes. Although the race does award some prizes, Bay to Breakers is more about the spirit than the finish times.

Although seemingly all fun and games, this year’s race was mired by a few surprising controversies. The chair of Capstone Event Group, which organizes the race, gave money to divisive political candidates. And initially the organizers refused to give prizes to non-binary racers, a policy which was recanted after widespread blow back.

Regardless of those issues, the event was back in full force after a two year absence, with thousands of runners enjoying the cool, foggy weather.

Costumed runners partake in the Bay to Breakers race in San Francisco on May 15, 2022.
Douglas Zimmerman/SFGATE

“I’m thrilled. It feels like things are going back to normal,” said runner Zia Martinis, who was born and raised in San Francisco. “Hopefully this isn’t a superspreader event, but I’ve got my mask, I’ve washed my hands, and if nothing else, I’m going to have some fun.”

As usual, there was a healthy contingent of salmon running upstream, as well as standout costumes like a William Wallace wannabe, Care Bears and, of course, nothing at all.

Scroll down to see all the best looks from the 2022 Bay to Breakers race: