2014 Roaring Run at Roaring River Half Marathon, 10k and 5k Preview on February 1 in Scio

Often the smaller races get overlooked, but smaller events can offer things that would be absolutely impossible with a larger race. For instance, the Roaring Run at Roaring River Half Marathon will have ‘door prizes’ at each and every mile marker. I’ve won a few Bingo rounds at a company picnic when I was a kid, but I’ve never won a door prize. With 13 opportunities, my luck might just change. There will be music blasting every mile, too, with an added twist. Participants are trying to come up with the connection between the songs. What an ingenious way to keep your mind busy during a half marathon! There's an iPod up for grabs too. Everyone that correctly guesses the music connection gets entered into the iPod drawing.

The run itself takes place in Scio, Oregon, which is about 20 miles east of the Albany exit, off of I-5.  A little bit of a drive for us in the Portland area, but the views look amazing.  A ‘flat and fast’ out and back course that has rivers, forests, pastures, mountain views and crosses the historic Larwood covered bridge. Held on Saturday, February 1st, it will most likely be on the brisk side, but I’ve heard there’s a potato bar for the finishers.  I’m usually too cold at the finish line to stick around for food, but a hot potato will keep me around. All half marathon finishers will get a medal at the finish line and age division awards will be given for the first three finishers in each age group. Long sleeve tech shirts are available to purchase for $15 and orders must be received by January 18th.

There will be a half marathon, 10k and 5k and all proceeds go to the Lebanon High School Cross Country Team. Students get an amazing deal. I actually thought it was a typo, but they can pick to run the half, a 10k or 5k for $5. Adult prices are more than reasonable, too. The half marathon is only $40. I don’t think I’ve ever run a half marathon for that! Prices increase on January 1st and there won’t be day of registration, so don’t procrastinate.

The race starts and finishes at the Roaring River County Park in Scio, near Albany. Parking is somewhat limited, so carpooling is encouraged.   A parking shuttle will run from Lacomb School at 34110 East Lacomb Road to the starting line.  Gatorade and water stations will be along the half marathon course and they offer an early start time, for anyone wanting a little extra cushion to finish. Packet pick up begins at 7AM on race day and the half marathon will begin at 9:30AM, the 10k and 5k follow at 10AM.

This will be my first trip to Scio and I’ll be bringing my teenager along to run the 10k, some healthy bonding time. A gorgeous course, extremely reasonable entry fee, fun games and potatoes at the finish line, I’m excited to give the Roaring Run Half Marathon a try. Check out event details here.