From Olney to Seaside, this season’s fun runs highlight the beauty of our community. Most routes take runners along forested trails, and several boast beach access where breathtaking views of the Pacific make runners forget their rush.
A trek around Clatsop for these events can improve your health in many ways including physical and mental well-being. Clean air, stress relief, exercise and getting over seasonal-affective disorder are just a few of the benefits. So grab your friends and family, strap on your sneakers and head out to enjoy our county’s landscape. In addition, by joining runs in Clatsop County, participants are supporting charities and nonprofits that serve our seniors, teens and kids.
Lewis and Clark Trail Run Series
The best deal and most historic races are the Lewis and Clark Trail Run Series. They wind along sections of the Kwis Kwis, Fort to Sea trails and along the South Clatsop Slough.
The first in the series is March 31, followed by the South Slough Scramble and Heath Fair is September 29. The runs are a steal, entry into the series is granted with any NPS or Fort Clatsop season pass. These runs can lead to a whole season of independent journeys traipsing around these trails on your own. “I enjoy running locally and I don’t always get the chance to trail run,” says Lisa Hankwitz, 2017 participant. “And they welcome all ability levels.”
Color the Coast for Autism
April 7 at KOA. This is a great opportunity for the community to get together and raise awareness and acceptance for our autism community, as well as raise money for our programs. There will be a raffle with donated items from our local businesses, a free hot dog lunch and lots of colorful fun. Questions can be directed to Brandi Lindstrom at brandil@autismsocietyoregon.org or 503-791-4088. We are still accepting donations for the raffle and hot dog lunch, or if anyone would like to donate money or register this can be done at the following here.
Color Me Green Run/Walk
“Come out and support the 4-H and get healthy doing it,” says Jared Delay, the Color Me Green Run/Walk organizer. On April 22, participants in the race will be bombarded with green dye at each mile marker on the 3.1 mile route, in representation of the organization’s four leaf clover emblem. The run takes you around the loop of the Battery Russell trail at Fort Stevens State Park for a beautiful day of “getting out to exercise in a fun way,” says Jared. The organization chose to start the run to encourage healthy living, he adds. And the non-toxic colored dye? That’s just for fun.
Run on the River
On May 20 join 400 friends and neighbors on the Astoria Riverwalk for the 5th annual Run on the River. “All the proceeds go to fund scholarships for low-income seniors and kids, to be involved in health and fitness activities through the parks,” says Kassia Nye, Astoria Parks Foundation board member. “So your money is going to swim lessons and tee ball.” Participants have a choice of 5K, 10K or half marathon with beautiful and serene river views. Cap off the race with a meal and beverage from race sponsor Buoy Beer at the celebratory party.
Running of the Trolls
Sign up for the 16th annual Running of the Trolls on June 16, is a healthy addition to the Astoria Scandinavian Midsummer Festival. The race is “really flexible and laid back,” says organizer Angie Cereghino. “It supports about half runners and half walkers.” Participants have a choice of a 5.75 miles (to place), 3-miles or a 1.5 mile course around the Walluski Loop. The entry cost gives participants a choice of t-shirt or wristband for the festival and supports scholarships for area teens involved in the weekend celebrations.
Seaside Beach Run
The Seaside Beach Run began in 1966 when two local lifeguards created the race. This year’s July 21 fun run includes 5K and 10K beach runs, 5K walks on the promenade, the “Kid’s Sand Dash” and a Treasure Hunt. Proceeds from the race support Fit to be Teens, Inc., a non-profit organization that encourages healthy living by providing fitness opportunities for middle and high school students.
Race to the Bar
For night owls, the Race to the Bar on September 8 is the best choice this summer. The beach race at Fort Stevens begins at 5:00 p.m., guaranteeing participants a phenomenal seat for the 7:40 p.m. sunset. The race is in its 6th year of supporting Lower Columbia Hospice with proceeds from entrants. Music, dinner and Fort George beer await finishers, then a seat around the bonfire to take in the view.
Great Columbia Crossing 10k Run/Walk
One of the most popular runs in our area, the Great Columbia Crossing 10k run/walk takes you over our famous bridge, where you can enjoy the views at a leisurely pace compared to driving in a car. This year’s event will be held on Sunday, October 14. Registration opens on May 1, 2018. People of all ages and abilities – from parents with children to competitive runners are welcome. The event is hosted by Astoria-Warrenton Area Chamber of Commerce.
Ole’s Assault Adventure Run Challenge
Ole’s Assault Adventure Run Challenge leads participants on a seven mile trip through streams, down ravines and over the “biggest and best obstacles created by mother nature,” according to race organizer Kevin Foreman. Starting at the Klaskanine Campground near Olney, the X-Dog event is an experience to remember for the first 250 sign-ups. It loops around Andy Peitsch’s family property and returns participants to the campground for salmon, drinks and free overnight camping. All ability levels are welcome, “There are people who walk the entire thing, people work together and help each other,” Kevin says. “The oldest participant was 76 and the youngest 7 or 8.”
