Santa Cruz Race the Wave brings tsunami awareness to the pavement

SANTA CRUZ, Calif. (KION-TV) - The first-ever Race the Wave run/walk is ready to bring awareness of tsunami safety to the City of Santa Cruz on Sept. 13.

The tsunami awareness run will follow a timed 3K evacuation route from a high-risk coastal area to higher ground beginning at the Santa Cruz Municipal Wharf. From here, the route heads down Pacific Avenue to the Downtown area and ends at Mission Plaza Park.

This announcement comes a day after a tsunami advisory was in effect due to the 8.8 magnitude quake outside of the remote east coast of Russia. Santa Cruz City Manager Matt Huffaker said that the advisory served as a "powerful reminder that these hazards are real."

“Preparedness is critical. Events like this help us build awareness and resilience, because knowing what to do in those first moments can save lives and protect our community," said Huffaker.

The race will begin at 8 a.m. on Saturday, Sept. 13, at the Santa Cruz Municipal Wharf, with registration open now with an entry fee of $20 for adults and $10 for kids 12 and under.

Those who participate will receive a t-shirt, safety materials, and post-run refreshments.