A photo from summer 2012 of the PRC Beaverton Group Run.
For those new to running, a group run can be a great way to get involved, learn more about gear and nutrition, find others at your pace, and learn about fun races in the area. Many times, people are a little nervous to join a group run – which is perfectly understandable. However, you’ll usually find that groups that meet up for regular running are extremely welcoming, eager to talk to you and answer your questions, and happy you’ve dropped in.
So, we’re going to tell you about some great group runs in Oregon and SW Washington. Know of one we should share? Just fill out our contact us form with the details!
The first run we’d like to tell you about is Portland Running Company’s Beaverton Group Run on Mondays. Every Monday (and most Wednesdays, too, but on a smaller scale) runners meet up at the Portland Running Company Beaverton location at 10029 SW Nimbus Ave. It’s right on the corner of Nimbus and Scholls Ferry, and there are driveways off both Nimbus and Scholls Ferry, with ample parking. The run starts at 6:00 PM, but it’s best if you can be there by 5:50 PM to sign in and chat. One of the group run leaders usually has a few announcements, and asks if there is anyone there unfamiliar with the route, so they can match you up to a veteran who will make sure you don’t get lost.
There are usually at least 20 people there, in the summer the group can surpass 60 participants! They also welcome walkers, but the range of paces is usually from about a 7:00/mile to an 11:00/mile. It’s easy to choose your own distance, as the route is easy to turn into an out-and-back (in the summer, all routes are out-and-back) but most people choose to go 3-6 miles.
The routes take advantage of the beautiful and safe Fanno Creek Trail, a wide paved path that goes through Woodard, Greenway, and other parks in Tigard and Beaverton in the summer; winter routes go through neighborhoods with sidewalks so runners are out of the street.
Portland Running Company offers restrooms to participants, as well as water; they offer drawings and about once a month in the warmer months will have a vendor there where you can try on shoes for the run and sometimes grab a piece of pizza afterwards. The group has a facebook page where regulars coordinate post-run outings for a beer or snacks, and the occasional cross-training excursion (dancing). The runs are dog friendly and stroller friendly, too, so bring the whole family!
In summary:
What: Portland Running Company’s Beaverton Monday Group Run
What time: Mondays (and Wednesdays, too) at 6:00 PM
Where: Portland Running Company at 10029 SW Nimbus in Beaverton
Distance/Pace: up to 6 miles, 7:00-11:00/mile paces
