Pints to Pasta. Image from Better Series
Pints to Pasta 10k is one of my favorite races for a few reasons: it’s the first race that I had ever really tried to train for, it’s flat and fast, and it has an awesome post-race party!
While Pints to Pasta 10k was actually the third race I had ever participated in, it was the first one that I had prepared for and felt like I was really RACING (not against anyone, just myself). For any runner, that’s reason enough to have a race hold a special place in your heart. But the event has always been well done, and good for runners and walkers of all abilities!
I love the initial downhill from Widmer Brothers, and the rest of the flat and fast course along Naito Parkway. And when I say FLAT AND FAST, I’m serious–it’s a great course for getting a PR. I especially love all of the spectators as you come in toward the finish line! The after party is fantastic, especially for people who haven’t been to a race before. There’s a great friendly and fun atmosphere, with everyone just sitting in the parking lot of the Old Spaghetti Factory, listening to music, chatting and laughing (there are some tables and chairs, but people are mostly just sitting on the asphalt). The food is good–every participant gets a roll, salad, and spaghetti from OSF, and two cups of beer from Widmer Brothers! In previous years, there has been fruit, chocolate milk, Jamba Juice and mini Jimmy Johns subs (depending on the year). The tech shirts have been pretty good most years as well.
Part of the proceeds from Pints to Pasta will be donated to the Boys and Girls Club of Portland and The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society’s TEAM IN TRAINING.
What: Pints to Pasta 10k
When: Sunday, September 7, 2014 at 8:00 am
Where: Old Spaghetti Factory; 0715 SW Bancroft St., Portland, OR
Registration: $49.00 online **Don’t forget that it costs $5 for the shuttle.
