(The following article was written and presented to the Port for distribution by the organizers of OctobeRun)

The sight of people enjoying kayaking, picnicking, and sailing at the Port of Redwood City brings joy to the heart of Port Commission Chair Lorianna Kastrop.  As the South Bay's only deepwater facility, the busy industrial Port is more typically associated with the international shipping of cargo like sand and gravel and scrap metal. But the Port also offers an attractive waterfront park and recreation activities for boaters and fishermen alike. 

"It's a hidden gem of Redwood City," said Ms. Kastrop. "We want more people to discover all we have to offer."

A unique community partnership is helping to highlight another Port attraction - its proximity to the San Francisco Bay Trail. The Port is teaming up with the organizers of OktobeRun Half Marathon and 5K to start and finish the popular race at the Port, with two courses that run along the scenic trail.

"Since our first race in 2011, we've been steadily improving OktobeRun for our participants," said Race Director, Rick Hunter. "This year we're partnering with the Port of Redwood City to provide a unique waterfront experience for our runners. It's going to be a great way to start your weekend, with a run along the Bay at a time of the year when the weather is so perfect."

OktobeRun is scheduled for October 4, 2014, on the same day as the PortFest community festival, also at the Port. PortFest, which was created to showcase the Port's industrial and recreational attributes, has fast become a beloved local tradition, featuring boat rides, live music, tours of the Port, and a wide range of food and drink as well as arts and crafts vendors and kids' activities.

"Uniting OktobeRun and PortFest is a terrific way to introduce runners to the recreational resources available at the Port of Redwood City," said Executive Director Mike Giari. "When they return from their run, PortFest will be in full swing, with all of the fun of a waterfront festival.  We hope that everyone will plan to come for OktobeRun and stay for the day!"

OktobeRun, now in its 4th year, is a fund raising event for the Redwood City Education Foundation (RCEF), which provides programs, such as music education and technology grants, for schools in the Redwood City School District. The foundation also participates in organizing the race and promoting it at all 16 schools in the district. 

As RCEF President Erika Pretell explained, "We have a long tradition of supporting wellness opportunities for our students and their families. Helping to put on OktobeRun, and also Parade Run on July 4th, allows us to give our community two events that build fitness through training and running."

The RCEF and the Port have a long and mutually valued relationship. The Port has been a solid supporter of the organization, and in 2011 was named RCEF Investor of the Year. 

"I appreciate the Port so much, both as an RCEF board member and a parent" said RCEF Treasurer, Judie Guiterrez, "my kids love PortFest and can't wait for it to come again!"

PORTFEST IS FROM 8 A.M. TO 5 P.M.

For more information, visit:

Port of Redwood City: http://www.redwoodcityport.com

PortFest: www.rwcportfest.com

OktobeRun Half Marathon and 5K: www.oktoberun.com