Bay to Breakers loses sponsor

Zazzle, the Redwood City-based custom apparel and gifts company that sponsored Bay to Breakers for two years, has dropped out of the race after failing to agree on terms with organizers.

Bay to Breaker enthusiasts might remember 2011, when the race’s previous sponsor, ING, bailed, claiming the race was losing money. Zazzle became B2B’s saving grace, stepping in at the last minute to sponsor the race.

With the 102nd Bay to Breakers race scheduled for May 19, organizers find themselves in a similar scramble to find a new sponsor.

A marquee scholarship for such an event could cost a company anywhere from $250,000 to $500,000, according to the Chronicle. However, even that would not completely cover race costs, which are said to be upward of $1 million.

But for those counting down the days until they can observe or indulge in the race’s famous nudity, intoxication and eccentric costumes, there’s no need to worry. Bay to Breakers general manager Angela Fang told the Chronicle that though the search is on for a new primary sponsor, the show will go on no matter what.

And if all else fails, B2B owner, billionaire Philip Anschutz, could foot the bill if need be.