One of my running goals this year is to run in a half marathon each month. I am 2 for 2 (and will be 3 for 3 by the time this posts), but April is still staring me in the face. While I am registered for one race, it is a 10k. I have narrowed it down to two – one of which being the Goat Mountain Gallop on Saturday, April 12.
This race is a point-to-point race between Colton and Molalla. Racers will be parking at Molalla High School and be shuttle to starting line, with the last bus at 815a. The course will follow paved, yet quiet country roads through the foothills of Goat Mountain. Goat Mountain itself is actually just on the border within the Mt. Hood National Forest (though the race is not), and there are numerous posts about the beautiful hiking and wilderness around it.
The race is described as being pretty hilly, but there is an overall elevation loss from the start in Colton to the finish in Molalla (if that makes you feel any better). There will be three aid stations on the course at miles 3, 6 and 9 with a restroom near the halfway point.
The 2013 event had 44 runners, but the race directors really stepped up their commitment to this race, and features online registration and chip timing for the first time. Uberthons has been brought in to be time the event – which should make for a great atmosphere, despite it being smaller in size. The race is a fundraiser for the Molalla High School track team. I still have some time to decide if this will be my April half. But, like me, don’t delay too long, as prices for this inexpensive race (only $35 if you don’t want a shirt) go up early next month.
Goat Mountain Gallop (Colton/Molalla)
When: 8a for walkers; 9a for runners
Where: Colton, OR
Register: Online here; $45 until 4/5 (only $35 with no shirt); Add $5 after 4/5
