Race Preview: 2015 MLK Dream Run

Posted on July 29, 2015 by in 10k, 15k, 5k, Portland Metro Running, Small Race preview // 0 Comments

Come join me August 2nd for The MLK Dream Run which will benefit youth development and empowerment by collaborating with programs that break the cycle of economic inequities and disparities in our communities through the NNEBA Fellows Youth Entrepreneurship Program. This will be a USATF sanctioned event for the 10K and 15K. Please note that no pets or strollers are allowed due to the "complexity of the routes and variety of merging sections that would make it unsafe." 5K participants will move through a diverse area that includes urban landscapes through the historic grounds near Jefferson High School and Portland Community College on through Peninsula Park connecting to Rosa Parks Blvd and back to MLK Jr. Blvd to the finish area. Please click here to preview the 5K course map.

The 10K and 15K Geoff Hollister Tribute will take participants through the “Soul of Portland”. Runners will journey through the artistic Alberta Arts communities, beautiful Irvington and Peninsula Parks, past cobbler communities, business nodes and neighborhoods like Russell and Stanton, Kerby and Rosa Parks. Both courses feature the steeply winding Mississippi Hill which begins at the bottom of NE Russell and Mississippi and ends at the beginning of the popular shopping area full of unique boutiques. Click here for 10K course map and to view the 15K course map, click here.

The race is actually part of a weekend of festivities, and on Saturday, Aug 1st the opening celebration starts at Noon until 10pm and the race on Sunday, Aug 2nd. Timing and results will be provided by Huber Timing and it is advised participants wear your bib on your chest or the front of your shorts and keep it visible.

Awards will be available in each distance to:

Top Overall Male and Female
Top Masters Male and Female
Top Youth (18 and under) Male and Female
(There will be no “double dipping” on awards)

For this year’s MLK Dream Run, the theme colors are Red White and Blue “to symbolize that the American Dream is an Equitable and Obtainable Dream for All; regardless of our race, gender, sexuality, religion or socio-economic status”. Teams and individuals are encouraged to show up in Red White and Blue colors displayed in creative ways! Examples listed on the race website include:

Dressing in Red White and Blue
Paint your face/ bodies Red White and Blue
Dress up as your dream Job- Dancer, Rocker, Accountant, Superhero
Or just show up and be a part of the fun

In addition to the timed race, Participants receive a delicious grilled cheese sandwich courtesy of Tillamook Cheese, an ice cold Brew courtesy of Widmer Bros Brewing ( for those 21 and older), raffle tickets for chances to win some awesome prizes and “swag bag” full of discounts. Last, but not least, participants also receive a commemorative T-shirt for the event.

Race Details:

When: Aug. 2nd
Gates open at 6am
Openeing Ceremony: 6:45am
5K Start Time: 7:20am
10K Start Time: 7:10am
15K Start Time: 7:00am
Post race festivities: 8:00am – 11:00am

Where: 5125 NE MLK Jr. Blvd. Portland, 97211 (look for an open space lot on the corner of NE MLK Jr. Blvd and NE Alberta St)

Registration: Run Sign Up
5K registration is $40, 10K is $55, and 15K is $65

Website: MLK Dream Run
Facebook Page
Facebook Event

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