Race The Flame

Race Overview

Are you ready? If you had to escape a wildfire in Santa Cruz how long would it take you to run or walk to reach safety? Would you know which way to go? Here’s your chance to test yourself and gain knowledge about wildfires and their impact on our community.

Event Details

• Event Date: 2026-10-17
• Location: 1156 High Street, Santa Cruz, CA
• Adult Registration Fee: $20
• Children Registration Fee: $15 (ages 12 and under)

Participation Information

Each participant will receive a bib with a timing chip regardless of which category you select. Competitive runners should pick the run option. Walkers and strollers will start after competitive runners.

• No Dogs: Because this event takes place on the UCSC campus there is a strict "no dogs" policy, so please plan on leaving your pooch at home.

Background

Race the Flame combines a community fun run, and a wildfire and emergency preparedness fair hosted by the City of Santa Cruz at the finish line.

• Community Commitment: This event reinforces the community commitment to emergency preparedness and hazard mitigation.
• Shared Responsibility: It highlights the shared responsibility to protect our community.
• Course Route: The race begins on the UCSC campus at the East Field and follows a route down Coolidge Drive with an ending at the Bay Tree Campus Bookstore and High Street.
• Emergency Preparedness Fair: At the finish line, an emergency preparedness fair will celebrate community resilience.

Additional Information

During the registration process you will be asked if you would like to opt into Cruz Aware, the local emergency notification service. Find more information by clicking here.

• Parking: Parking will be available at the East Remote Parking Lot on Hagar Drive.
• Shuttle Services: Shuttle buses will be available to take you from the finish line up to your car or bike.