The Molalla Freedom 5k is run each year on the morning of July 4th. It was voted “Best July race” by RunOregon readers in 2013. Most of the race course goes along the 4th of July parade route, which starts about an hour after the race, which means that along the way there are many fun people cheering on the runners.
The race starts and finishes on the Mollala High School running track. Runners leave the stadium, then run a loop on neighborhood streets through Mollala, following the same route that will later be taken by the 4th of July parade. At the end, runners re-enter the stadium and finish on a flag-lined route around the oval before crossing the finish line in front of the bleachers.
Runners finishing on the flag lined path
When I ran the race in last year, the route was very well marked, mile markers were right on, the water station at the half way point had plenty of water and friendly volunteers. Using the stadium as the start/finish has the great advantage of flush toilets in a brick and mortar building. If you wanted to take a shower after the run before enjoying the parade or the rodeo (tickets included in your goodie bag!), you can use the changing rooms there to shower and change.
The race is chip-timed with results available within moments of crossing the finish line. Water bottles were also handed out immediately after crossing, and other treats and post-race snacks available. The race is stroller-friendly, but you are asked to leave your dog at home. It is the perfect venue to take your family to a nice race and parade.
Of the race proceeds, 100% are given back to the community. This year the proceeds will be divided between the VFW supporting disabled veterans in need, the Chamber of Commerce, and Community Restoration improving sidewalks throughout Mollala.
2014 Freedom 5K Participant T-shirt
Mollala Freedom 5k Details:
When: July 4th, 2014, 9:20am (course time limit is 1hr)
Where: Heckard Field, Mollala, OR (click for Map)
Registration: Online here
Registration cost: $26 (families receive $5/person discount if registering 3 or more family members); $30 day-of-race
Registration includes: Chip timed race, tech event t-shirt, tickets to the afternoon rodeo, post-race refreshments.
Packet Pickup: Road Runner Sports 7063 SW Nyberg Rd, Tualatin; Tuesday, July 1st 6pm-8pm
Main Street Coffee 215 E. Main St., Molalla, OR; Wednesday, July 2nd 6pm-8pm
Day-of-race at the start/finish area starting at 8am
