Races with a little “Love” for your February: the Warrior Love Run 5k/10k and the SCRC Love Run

Nothing I love more than a real reason to look forward to Valentine's Day. Let's face it, after movies got through with creating unrealistic expectations of what the day SHOULD be like, only 1 in 14 people are happy with their partner's efforts.* However, if you love running, why not run a race that says it right in the name - maybe with that special someone? Here are two small races on the Oregon Coast that are sure to put a smile on your face! The first "Love" race this February is the Warrior Love Run, a 10k/5k scheduled for Saturday, February 8, 2015 in Nehalem, Ore. At only $20 for the 5k and $25k for the 10k, this race is made even sweeter because it's a fund raiser for the S.H.E Warriors, a running club for 4th and 5th grade girls. The club promotes self-confidence and friendship through a training program for 5k and 10k goals. (S.H.E. stands for Sharing Health and Exercise.)

Where: Nehalem Bay State Park, located at 9500 Sandpiper Lane in Nehalem, Ore.

What time: 10a

Register: Online here by February 6 or Day of Race

This would also be a great race for families, because of the focus on youth running. Expect to see a lot of youngsters taking on both distances!

*    *    *    *    *

The SCRC Love Run is scheduled for Valentine’s Day – Saturday, February 14, 2015. Hosted by non-profit South Coast Running Club, the Love Run is a casual affair with a Valentine’s Day theme. I would be surprised if at least one person did not show up dressed as a cold-weather cupid!

Where: Simpson Park in North Bend, Ore.

What time: 10a

The SCRC is a road and trail 5k. After the race, stick around for “Valentine’s themed gifts and prizes.” Registration info was not yet available online, but SCRC races are very low-cost and friendly events.

(The following is completely not running related, but while I’m spreading the love, I figured why not?)

And if you are looking for something to give from the heart that also benefits the local community, may I recommend the Meals-on-Wheels Valentine-a-gram? It’s not running related, but all proceeds benefit Meals-on-Wheels! If you think flowers are a waste of money and are trying to avoid the cliche heart-shaped box of chocolates at all costs, you might like this one. I’ve gotten it for my husband the past few years, so that I could confiscate the Jamba Juice and cookie coupon. Delivered on Friday, February 13, each $29.95 Valentine-a-gram includes:

• Two heart shaped Ghirardelli fudge brownies drizzled with chocolate sauce and white chocolate shavings
• Two strawberries dipped in dark chocolate
• Poplandia Popcorn
• Martinelli’s Sparkling Cider
• Jamba Juice free 16oz smoothie coupon
• Kobos Coffee
• Bridge City Cafe free cookie coupon
• Stash Tea Sampler
• Justin’s Nut Butter
• A special message from you!

*I made this up.