Get ready for a day of adventure and community spirit as Race the Rock makes its return on Saturday, September 20, in Coronado.
This annual scavenger hunt fundraiser, now in its third year, invites two-person teams to embark on a series of playful challenges around the island.
“Some people do race…I’m not going to lie,” shared Liz Merrill, the founder of the event. “But for most people, it’s just for fun.”
The aim is simple: participants can enjoy a memorable day with a partner—whether a significant other or a friend—support local businesses, and most importantly, raise funds for essential community nonprofits.
Over the years, Race the Rock has raised more than $50,000 annually for local causes.
This year’s theme, “Well Rounded Child,” ensures that 100% of proceeds will benefit the Coronado Schools Foundation, Safe Harbor, and the Islander Sports Foundation.
Unlike many other races, Race the Rock emphasizes fun over physical exertion.
Starting and ending at Nicky Rottens, teams are tasked with completing 12 quirky challenges that vary from year to year.
“For example, participants in past years have stacked cups, walked someone’s dog, or even learned a cheer from the Coronado High School cheerleaders,” Merrill explained.
Despite the light-hearted spirit of the challenges, they are designed to be entertaining rather than overly demanding.
“The stops are all over the island,” Merrill mentioned. “It’s nothing that’s super hard. But it’s nothing anyone is really good at, either.”
One particularly memorable challenge from a previous year involved participants choosing between stretching their partner for three minutes or taking a cold plunge at Jo Stretch.
“So many people did the cold plunge,” Merrill recalled, laughing at the hilarious sight it created.
Another fun aspect of Race the Rock is the required costume component.
“My favorite part of the entire race is the dress-up,” said Merrill. “People go all out and it’s so creative. One year my friend and her partner dressed up in these banana suits and wore them the entire day!”
For participating teams, there are incentives beyond just the fun and laughter.
The team that manages to complete all the challenges in the shortest time will receive a top prize.
Additionally, there is an award for the best costume.
Merrill recounted that one year, the winning team received a night at the iconic Hotel Del Coronado, while the best costume winner got to enjoy a s’mores party for ten on the beach.
Notably, electric bikes are not permitted during the event to ensure a level playing field for all participants.
Merrill expressed her gratitude for the support the event has received, highlighting the significant sponsorship from local businesses, including a $20,000 contribution from the Kato Family.
Thanks to this generous backing, Race the Rock is fully underwritten, meaning that all proceeds directly benefit the selected nonprofits.
Participants interested in joining Race the Rock should act quickly.
Teams who participated in previous years get priority registration, and the event is capped at 50 teams.
Merrill cautioned, “It always sells out. So if you want to participate, watch the website, RacetheRockCoronado.com, and our Instagram.”
Furthermore, Merrill emphasized that they are still seeking additional sponsors who can gain exposure, participate in the event, and join the afterparty at Nicky Rottens.
“Businesses seeking sponsorship should reach out here,” she encouraged.
At its core, Race the Rock embodies the spirit of the community.
Merrill proudly remarked, “Everybody in the race is from Coronado. It’s a real island event, and that’s the spirit I set out to create.”
With its light-hearted atmosphere and focus on supporting local youth, Race the Rock promises to be a fun-filled day for participants and spectators alike.
As the event approaches, excitement builds, and both participants and sponsors look forward to another memorable anticipation-filled scavenger hunt on the beautiful island of Coronado.
image source from：coronadotimes
