2015 marks the 39th year for Lake Oswego’s Lake Run. This notoriously hilly race is one of my favorites. Both the 5K and 10K enjoy great views of the lake and meander through some of Lake Oswego’s neighborhoods. Although I haven’t run this race in several years, one of the things that stood out to me about it in the past, besides the hills, was the great community support. People were out in their front yards and lining the streets to cheer runners on with signs, music, and even impromptu “aid stations.”
This year the 10K route”will take runners back to the lake route that everyone loves to hate.” This scenic route has some killer elevation, but runners will fly downhill to the finish line.
The 5K racers will enjoy views of the lake and Lakewood Bay and will have some hills to conquer as well. But, again, the finish is all downhill. Both the 5K and 10K routes are USATF certified.
The Lake Run also includes a Kids Dash, which is a short 2 block route great for a variety of ages. Even if the kids won’t be running, bring them along for the Family Fun Festival which lasts from 8:00 A.M. to noon. There will be a giant slide, face painting, crafts, and food and beverages for everyone. This is a great family oriented outing with amazing community support. I have always enjoyed the post-race atmosphere here. It’s one of those races where you’ll really want to stick around for awhile afterwards and check out all the booths and activities.
Organized by the Lake Oswego Women’s Club, all proceeds from this race will go to Clackamas County Women’s Center, Children’s Center, Court Appointed Special Advocates, and even scholarships to deserving local high school seniors. The Lake Run is their biggest fundraiser of the year, allowing the Women’s Club to continue to help the community.
After a 4 year hiatus from this event due to scheduling issues, I am looking forward to finally being able to run this one again. This will be my first year running the 10K, as the last time I ran this race they had a 12K instead. I know I’m in for some hill climbing, but there’s just something about this race I love. The scenery, the challenge, and the atmosphere are calling me. Lake Run, I’m coming back!
Lake Run Details
Date: Saturday, May 9
Times: 8:00 A.M. – 10K, 8:15 A.M. – 5K, 10:00 A.M. – Kids Dash
Location: Millenium Park Plaza, Lake Oswego
Race Fees: $40 – 10K, $30 – 5K (through May 7) $15 – Kids Dash
Race Website: Click Here
