Anyone that's a part of the NYC running scene will know that this past month saw a flurry of unsanctioned races, through the streets and without official barriers. Though I've never heard an official definition, there seems to be a universal understanding of the difference between a street race and a road race. Once again, I had the fortunate opportunity to photograph the Williamsburg version of this summer's Take the Bridge racing series.
Having participated in several of these races over the last two years, it's easy to see patterns in both preparation and mindset of the type of runner attracted to this event. I've become intrigued by the ingredients that make up both a street race and a street racer. As one can imagine, it takes one hell of a race director, Darcy Budworth, a small army of volunteers and a crap load of pizza. Oh, and the photographers!
As for the racers themselves, I have an immense amount of respect for anyone who laces up and stands against the rest of the field, ready (or at least present) to battle traffic, pedestrians, cyclists and the occasional mini cop car telling us to clear the path, all in the name of racing. Perhaps the single most defining characteristic of a street racer would be the unanimous response to question, 'why do you do this?" Most often I hear, 'I don't know...I just do."
Bakline gear seen in the photos:
Headline photo: Street Racer Heathered Pocket Tee: Francisco Balagtas
Brooklyn is Not Manhattan: Dani Sturtz
Persist Muscle Tank: Melissa Marques
Feel free to use any of the photos you see here. I only ask that kindly tag @baklinerunning. And ya know, give us a follow if you haven't already!
(Note: The ~100 photos may take a few seconds to load. Here is a direct link to Flickr album in case you're having trouble.)
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