Lake Merritt Joggers & Striders (LMJS) is an Oakland based running club and has the distinction of being the East Bay’s oldest running club. LMJS was founded in 1977. Its earliest tradition were the Fourth Sunday Runs around Lake Merritt which historically started and ended at the Old Boathouse and used the sidewalk around the Lake as the course. (Note: In 2006, due to construction activity at the Old Boathouse, the location of our races was permanently moved to the Sailboat House at 568 Bellevue Ave. in Oakland.)

The distances offered at these races are a 5K (once around the Lake), a 10K (two times around), and 15K (three times around). All distances are certified, which means they have been measured by a course certifier and the race distances are recognized as being accurate. There is water available to the runners and volunteers to assist the runners. Participation ribbons are given to all runners and place ribbons are awarded to the top runners, both male and female in ten year age groups. All those interested in running, whether beginner, walker, jogger, or competitive racer are welcome to join our monthly runs.

All of LMJS Fourth Sunday runs begin at 9:00 a.m. at the Sailboat House, rain or shine. Registration for the regular Fourth Sunday runs is available on-line until Friday at noon (go to www.active.com) and on race day beginning at 8:15 a.m. The fee is $3 for members and $5 for non-members. The course distances as mentioned are certified and the course is flat. Tee shirts and other apparel(emblazoned with our famous running ducks logo) are available for sale at the Fourth Sunday runs.

Two times a year our Fourth Sunday races take on a special theme. In February, there is the Couples Relay, a two person relay with a Valentine theme. In July, there is the Time Is on Your Side race where victory is awarded not to the swiftest, but to the runners who can best predict their finish time.
Click here for monthly schedule of races.

In addition to the Fourth Sunday Runs every month, LMJS also has one other special race at a different venue, the Tilden Tough Ten Miler in May. This race was established in 1987 as an alternative for more serious runners to the “Bay to Breakers.” It has grown in popularity over the years and now regularly “sells out” every year, with the maximum number allowed by our permit of 300 runners.