This weekend, Oakland will host its first running marathon in 25 years.
About 6,300 people from 37 states and six countries will hit the pavement through the streets of Oakland during the inaugural Oakland Running Festival, an event organizers say they hope to bring back next year.
On Saturday March 27 participants will run a 5K around Lake Merritt, which begins at 6 p.m. The next morning there will be a marathon, half marathon, four-person relay and fun run for children. Other activities are planned throughout the weekend, including live music and a health and fitness expo.
The marathon will begin 7:30 a.m. on Sunday, with runners taking off downtown at Broadway and 14th Ave. and lacing their way through the city, bypassing much of East and West Oakland. Visit the official Web site for a detailed description of the 26.2 mile course.
For those who live in Oakland or may be returning from Spring Break, note traveling may take more time.
Want to still register? Head to the Expo at the Oakland Marriott City Center tomorrow to sign up.
Below find a document issued by the City on exact times and locations of closures.
