One of the many beautiful views along the waterfront.
Photo credit: Amanda Ulrich
I ran my very first non-chip timed event in January, the Snowflake Dash, and I have to admit, I thoroughly enjoyed running a race for the fun of it. There was no pre-race psych out, no nerves, just me, and bunch of other people, and some running to do.
With that in mind, I am very excited to preview Team Congo PDX’s Group 10K & 5K Walk/Run on March 8, 2014.
The first thing I am really excited about is supporting an amazing cause. I love running and I love charitable work, so anytime I can support one with the other is a double bonus to me.
The event is structured so sponsorship covers all race expenses, leaving the registration fee as a 100% donation to Women for Women International’s Congo program. You can read more about the conflict in Congo on their website’s About Us page.
Another beautiful scene along the waterfront.
Photo credit: Amanda Ulrich
The second thing I am excited about is the course itself. There’s no place I’d honestly rather run than on the Portland waterfront. Weather, aside, the scenery NEVER fails to disappoint.
Click here for the 10K course map.
Click here for the 5K course map.
Both courses are out and back which will be really fun for participants so we can high five and cheer each other on as we run and walk. Honestly, nothing motivates me more than seeing a community of runners supporting each other.
Race Director Amanda Ulrich also noted that the courses will be marked, which will help anyone unfamiliar with the area. Me, I usually follow the herd!
The blue heron “course marshall” that keeps a watchful eye along the 10K route. Photo credit: Amanda Ulrich
Right now registration fees are $20, and $20 for the optional t-shirt, click here to see the design.
Race day check-in opens at 7:15 am at the Downtown Foot Traffic (333 SW Taylor Street, Portland, OR 97204). Bag drop is available. While you wait to be sent out for your run/walk, you can keep warm inside Foot Traffic, and chat with representatives from the following local organizations who work in / support work in Eastern Congo: Equal Exchange, Atma Foundation & Never Again Coalition.
There are many parking garages near the event check-in and after-event reception, and street parking is also an option. Race organizers encourage the use of mass transit, however The Smart Park on 4th & Yamhill offers $5 parking on Saturdays and is very close to Foot Traffic.
Start times are as follows: 10K 8:15 am, 5K Walk, 8:45 am, & 5K Run 9:00 am.
After participants finish their run, they can head to Swanson, Thomas, Coon & Newton (820 SW 2nd Ave., Suite 200, Portland, OR), where they will be able to see if they won a Top Tier raffle item, a day-of raffle item, partake in conversation, and re-fuel with post-run snacks.
Click here for details on Top Tier Raffle Prizes. To be eligible for the Top Tier prizes, participants must set up a fundraising page and raise at least $100 for the cause. (I love this idea!)
I am really looking forward to this event, a great cause, on a great course with great people! Here’s the short list of what you need to know:
Photo of friends from Amanda’s high school that came out to support the event in 2013.
Photo credit: Alexa Brandt of Fatman Productions
Date: March 8, 2014
Time: Check in begins 7:15
10K start is 8:15AM
5K Walk start is 8:45AM
5K Run start is 9:00AM
Registration link: http://bit.ly/1aUFGoz
Registration Fees: $20 for the run, $20 for the shirt
NOTE: This event is capped at 230 runners, they sold out last year!
Event Website: http://amandapdxrunforcongo.wix.com/teamcongop
