The roads and paths of Washington County are about to be dotted with runners nearly every weekend, all of whom are intent on crossing a finish line.
Several of the spring races tie in to bigger themes, including Mother’s Day and the Festival of Balloons in Tigard. Luckily, there are enough varying lengths and terrain that runners (and walkers!) can decide just where to hit their stride. I think I’ll bask in the glow of the night run; the 5K Twilight Run in Tigard on June 22.
On your marks, get set, go choose one!
The Dirty Du and Dirt Dash
Sunday, April 14
Billed as “two filthy funfests,” this event offers participants a choice of either a duathalon with a 5 mile trail run and 15 mile mountain bike ride; or just the 5 mile trail run “dash.” These are at scenic Hagg Lake. More.
Vernonia Half/Full Marathon
Sunday, April 14
On a course described as “flat, fast and scenic,” participants largely use the Banks-Vernonia State Trail for this half or full marathon. More.
Falcon 15K Relay/10K/5K
Saturday, April 20
Choices abound at this Hillsboro event; there’s a 15K relay race for teams of three people; 15K or 10K run for individuals; a 5K run/walk for individuals; and a 300-meter race for kids age 10 and younger. More.
Earth Day 5K
Sunday, April 21
Celebrate earth day at this 5K run or the kids 1-mile recycle race–all of which are followed by live music, veggie burgers, organic beer and informational booths. The start and finish is at Cook Park in Tigard. More.
Hagg Lake 10K
Saturday, May 5
Choose from a 10K run/walk or a 10.4 mile run/walk around Hagg Lake on a scenic path. Those walking get an early start. More.
Hippie Chick Half & Quarter Marathon
Saturday, May 11
This all-women 13-miler (or 6 1/2, if you prefer) run winds through scenic streets of Hillsboro and rural Washington County. Guests at the Hillsboro Courtyard Marriott can enjoy a free shuttle to the event, as well as a discounted room rate. More.
Friar Trot 5K/10K/1 mile
Saturday, May 18
The 7th annual Friar Trot 10K/5K and fun run/walk winds through Sherwood, and the after party includes breakfast burritos and live music. More.
Rum Run 5k/10K/Kids Tiki 1K
Sunday, May 26
You read it right: a rum-themed run. This course winds through Tigard and Tualatin and at the conclusion, each finisher (over age 21) receives a mojito while enjoying snacks and sounds of the Caribbean. More.
Helvetia Half Marathon/10K/5K
Saturday, June 8
This 13th annual run offers a hilly good time through scenic countryside. Finishers are rewarded with beer and burgers. More.
Tigard Twilight 5K
Saturday, June 23
This 5K Run/Walk is held in conjunction with the annual Festival of Balloons in Tigard, at Cook Park. With a 7 p.m. start time, participants will see hot air balloons glowing at the finish at dusk. Details.
This is just the tip of the running event iceberg–we’ll have additional blog posts summarizing area runs, or check out our 2013 marathons post. In addition, watch for our spring blog post listing all the upcoming bike events!
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