Nike Women’s Half Marathon Series Drops San Francisco Race for 2016

Nike did not provide an explanation for the change or an expected announcement date for next year’s events. There are currently no 2016 events listed on the series’ website.

The San Francisco event that drew more than 25,000 participants at its latest race on October 18 was the first in the Nike Women’s Half Marathon series, which also hosted races in Washington, D.C., and Toronto. The Washington, D.C., race was canceled in January ahead of its April 2015 running, and the Toronto race, a 15K held in June, was also dropped for 2016 along with the San Francisco race. 

The San Francisco Parks and Recreation Department was notified of Nike’s decision about a month ago, according to Sarah Madland, the director of policy and public affairs.   

“I know nothing other than they said they are not doing the event in San Francisco this year and are pursuing alternate locations,” Madland wrote in an email to Runner’s World

The news sparked a string of disappointed commenters on the event’s Facebook page

“As a legacy runner in Nike’s SF race I was really saddened to hear that it had been canceled,” wrote Karin Lewcock. “It has become a tradition for me and my mom for the last 12 years. Please reconsider!” 

Others wrote in saying they wished Nike offered more explanation for the decision. “[I’m] a little surprised you have not released a PR statement about canceling the SF race given how this has become a bucket list event for so many women,” wrote Jill Mitsch. 

Bakker directed runners to the series website for updates regarding events for 2016.

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