Hero-Up Hulk 2013
Most events I check off my list and start researching the next one, but there are a few, for one reason or another, that pull me back. Hero-Up Half Marathon is a new annual event for me. Who doesn’t love Superheroes? I love the D.C. versus Marvel discussion with my boys, but this run would be my new favorite even without the fun theme.
To begin with, 100% of the net proceeds of this event go to fighting childhood cancer. Not many events can say they donate all of the proceeds and I can’t think of a more worthwhile cause, especially when every day 46 children are diagnosed with cancer. This run is a new favorite, for me, mostly because of the true hero behind it. At the age of 3, Keith was diagnosed with a malignant brain tumor and succumbed to the disease in September of 2012. Keith loved Superheroes and running and his memory lives on every September as participants lace up and run to fight cancer.
September is Childhood Cancer Awareness Month and the Hero-Up Half Marathon and 5k is an easy way to help raise awareness, a little money for a great cause and have fun at the same time. The Hero-Up Half Marathon and 5k Run is at Cook Park in Tigard on Saturday, September 6th. The Half Marathon is $65, includes a medal and starts at 7:30AM. The Half Marathon course runs through Cook Park, Durham City Park, Tigard neighborhoods and the Tualatin Community Park. There will be 6 aid stations along the course, it’s super flat and, with with all the costume fun, there’s no way to get bored during this run. From packet pick up to the post-race ‘party’ there are lots of capes, a few villains and all sorts of superhero interpretations. 
The 5k is $30 and runs at 8:30AM on Saturday. The course basically follows the first 3.1 miles of the half marathon, through Cook Park, Durham City Park and back around the soccer fields. There will be a Kids Race at 9:30AM. This event is free, but registration is required. Participants are encouraged to bring a new pair of pajamas or a new toy to donate. There is a virtual run option, as well, for anyone not able to make it on race day. Online registration closes on September 4th. Registration will be available on race day until 7AM for the half marathon and 8AM for the 5k. Prices increase slightly ($5) if you wait until race day.
Prizes will be awarded for the first overall male and female in each age division. Prizes will also be awarded for the costume contest with the following categories:
- Best Look-a-like
- Best Original Superhero
- Best Duo
- Best Group
- Best Sidekick
- Best Villain
- Best Kid’s Costume
Costumes are not required to participate and you don’t have to be a runner or walker to be part of the Hero-Up Half Marathon and 5k. Sign up to volunteer and still make a difference. There are no excuses to skip this event. A well-organized run honoring a very special little man and raising money for childhood cancer, come try this one just once and you’ll see why it’s on my favorite list of events.
