If you know me, you know I hate cancer. It’s a jerk and I hope to live long enough to see huge leaps in treatment if not a cure. But in the meantime, I can let Run Oregon readers know about races that raise funds for research or to support families fighting cancer. Enter the COPA Family 5k in Bend, scheduled for Saturday, July 12.
Part of the Tour des Chutes (get it?), which also offers cycling events, this 5k event is a non-competitive, family-friendly run/walk. Created in the memory of Bend runner Johanna Olson, who was only 34 when she died of cancer in 2013, the 5k will benefit the Pediatric Foundation. This non-profit serves families in Central Oregon who need to travel out of the area for their children’s cancer treatment.
The 5k Run is open to strollers and runners of all ages, but not of the canine variety, so leave your pups at home. You can view a course map here or just take my word for it when I say it will be a nice course, running through the NW Crossing neighborhood and on Skyliners Road.
Here’s what you need to know:
When: Saturday, July 12, 2014
What time: 10:30a
Where: High Lakes Elementary School at 2500 NW High Lakes Loop
Register: Online here by July 6 for $25. This race may sell out, given the historic success of the bike events. Check out youth and family registration options, too, by clicking here.
COPA stands for Central Oregon Pediatric Associates, who has sponsored the Tour des Chutes for years and helps make this event possible. The 5k event in particular has been organized by a number of folks, including Dave Thomason, the well-known SuperDave of Central Oregon.
