Galloping Gertie

🏃‍♀️ Galloping Gertie

Join us for a half marathon, 10K and 5K that shows off Tacoma’s and Gig Harbor’s finest views. Each race will run on the iconic Tacoma Narrows Bridge (Galloping Gertie), which features stunning views of the Puget Sound, Mount Rainier, the Olympic Mountains, and the surrounding cities of Tacoma and Gig Harbor. This is one of the few races that traverse the bridge span to span. All participants in the race will receive:

• Custom finisher medal: A unique keepsake for all participants.
• Free downloadable race photos: Capture your memorable moments.
• Cool tech tee: Stylish and functional race shirt for participants.
• Local charities: The best part? It all supports great local charities!

🌉 What is Galloping Gertie?

Galloping Gertie is the nickname of the Tacoma Narrows Bridge, a local icon that spans the Puget Sound between Tacoma and Gig Harbor, Washington. Crossing it provides breathtaking views of the Puget Sound, Mount Rainier, and the Olympic Mountains.

📅 The History Behind Gertie

The original Tacoma Narrows Bridge suffered a catastrophic collapse in November 1940, just four months after it opened. It earned its nickname while it was under construction, when workers observed the bridge deck jump during periods of high wind. A fatal error in the engineering of the bridge resulted in its collapse when the winds caused something called aeroelastic flutter. At the time, Gertie was the third longest suspension bridge in the world.

🚧 Bridge Replacements

The replacement bridge opened in 1950 (this is the existing westbound bridge) and the newer eastbound bridge (the one you will run across) opened in 2007. The engineering disaster that resulted in the collapse of the bridge makes the Tacoma Narrows Bridge one of the more famous in the world.

🔗 Event Details

For more information or to register for the race, visit the official race page.