This Saturday brings the first Coach Jim long run of the season, and along with it a lovely 10 mile run that will take you around Portland’s waterfront for a fairly flat and scenic route.
When: Saturday, November 7, 2015
What time: The run starts at 8a. Please arrive at least 10 minutes early so the run can start on time.
Where: Road Runner Sports at 29 NW 23rd Place in Portland (just off Burnside and NW 23rd)
How far & how fast: The route is an 8.93-mile loop. Experienced pace group leaders will help keep you on pace and prevent you from getting lost. Exact paces will vary but there are usually groups training for a 3:30 – 5:00 marathon finish time.
This week’s route starts out heading toward the river on NW Everett before cutting down to Goose Hollow past the Timbers home field. Running up Columbia, the group will hit the park blocks at PSU and zig zag down to a small loop at the South Waterfront. From there it’s north on the path through Waterfront Park, all the way up Front/Naito to NW 9th. Then the route calls for a little more than a half-mile west on Overton before you get back to NW 22nd and head back to the store. (NW 22nd has less traffic than NW 23rd.)
As for parking, there is a ramp for the shopping center in which RRS is located, which is your best bet. You may find street parking, but it’s a gamble and you need to also pay attention to time limits. Carpooling is always a great idea.
These are not supported runs in that there are not aid stations set up on the route. (Supportive, yes; supported, no.) Please be prepared with hydration and nutrition, dress for the weather, and be sure to bring a set of dry clothes to put on after the run. Also keep in mind that if you are wearing a waterproof coat, you may sweat more than usual (the sauna effect) and need to drink more fluids than you may think based on the temperature.
Questions? Visit Coach Jim’s facebook group!