Giants Race and Project Open Hand

On Sunday, August 4, over 20,000 runners took to the streets of SF to run either the half marathon, 10k, 5k, or Kids Race/Family Relay for the fourth annual Giants Race benefiting Project Open Hand. For many, this was their first running race but entered being a Giants fan and wanting to make their first race one that ended in the outfield of AT&T Park.

For me personally, running the half marathon was a personal goal since knee surgery last year sidelined me from triathlon training for over a year. I wasn’t nearly as trained as I should’ve been, but still participated and finished in under 2 hours, setting a new personal record for myself.  Others wanted to get the Sergio Romo bobblehead to join Matt Cain’s from last year. Others, the World Series ring replica medal given at the finish after the race. For some, fundraising for Project Open Hand was their personal goal

The Giants Race event goal was $250,000 which was money fundraised (optional) by many participating in the race. Fundraising also gives Giants fans incentive to raise money by giving away pretty awesome awards. (See below.)

About Project Open Hand:

Since 1985, Project Open Hand has provided vital nutrition and compassion to some of the neediest individuals in our community.  Project Open Hand provides meals, groceries, and nutritional counseling to individuals living with HIV and AIDS, individuals who are homebound with other critical illnesses, and seniors in San Francisco and Alameda County.  At Project Open Hand, the goal is to feed the body, mind, and soul, through healthy food prepared and delivered with love, by dedicated staff and volunteers.

You can read more about Project Open Hand here and even make a personal donation. Or think about signing up for next year as a goal for yourself.  I know I’ll be there!