Excitement Builds as Golden State 5K Race Kicks Off at Chase Center

SAN FRANCISCO – The inaugural Golden State 5K Race launched Sunday morning at 9 a.m., attracting hundreds of participants eager to tackle the scenic 3.1-mile course along the Bay. Hosted at Chase Center, the sold-out event featured wellness activities, live music, and giveaways, creating a festive atmosphere for attendees.

“For me, it’s home. I live in Sacramento now, so it’s kind of like a homecoming for me,” said Shane Fandinola, a participant from San Francisco.

Excitement was palpable as runners and walkers gathered at Chase Center, the event’s backdrop. “When the Warriors announced they would have their first, inaugural 5K, I was like, yeah, sign me up. What a great location to have it,” commented Ann Radock of South San Francisco.

Before the race, participants received an inspiring pep talk from former Golden State Warriors player Festus Ezeli and KTVU Meteorologist Roberta Gonzales, who also took part in the race. The crowd hit the pavement, some sprinting, others jogging or walking, enjoying the vibrant atmosphere.

Justin Wasielewski, a resident of San Francisco, took first place with a time of 17 minutes and 21 seconds. “I’ve been running since high school and college. I live in the neighborhood here, and I run past Chase Center every morning,” he said. “It felt great to be a part of something in my own community. It’s something the city really needs right now, just getting people out together and celebrating something like this.”

Chase Center General Manager Donna Daniels expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration behind the event. “It’s been an amazing collaboration with Kaiser Permanente across our entire organization: the Valkyries, the Warriors, Generation Thrive, Santa Cruz. It’s been amazing. Today has been a great day,” Daniels said.

The day also included wellness activities such as a stretch station provided by Kaiser Permanente and a live performance from Bay Area DJ, DJ NOODLES. With the Golden State Warriors gearing up to face the Houston Rockets, anticipation for the season among fans was high.

“I think Jimmy is the blessing that we need. He’s the right key that we wanted. I was a fan of his when he was in Miami and Chicago. So, coming to the Warriors, it’s just the perfect fit,” said San Francisco resident Steve Lau, reflecting on the team’s recent acquisitions.

Organizers hope the Golden State 5K Race becomes a marquee event for Thrive City, continuing to foster community spirit and engagement long into the future.