Thousands of runners said "Ciao 2010" with a scenic run in Buenos Aires (Photo: Runnin'Web Revista)

With only eight hours remaining in 2010, thousands took to the streets of downtown Buenos Aires for one last road race. But unlike the other major BA road races last year named after corporate sponsors like Nike, Reebok, Banco Galicia, Merrell and Energizer, this one was named after a saint. The San Silvestre 8K was first run on the streets of São Paulo back in 1924, and today over 100 cities including Madrid, Barcelona and Mexico City host their own version of San Silvestre on the final day of the year. For the first time ever, the City of Buenos Aires joined in the celebration.

Runners were treated to a very scenic closed course which proceeded south down Avenida 9 de Julio, west to Congreso, north past the Teatro Colón, down Diagonal Norte to Cabildo and finally back to the Obelisco for the finish. With a 4:00 start time, the heat was definitely a factor, but at least the weather has cooled considerably since last week’s record-breaking heat wave. As always, the City of Buenos Aires did a stellar job hosting the event, closing the streets and making sure all participants had a memorable race. Sponsors of the first annual San Silvestre included Megatlon, New Balance, Gatorade, Granix and Sierra de los Padres.

For more information about upcoming Buenos Aires events, download the summer calendar in the new issue of InvestBA Privada.