The 7th annual Fort Vancouver Run 5k/12k takes place on Sunday, March 6th. This race offers a 5k and a 12k, as well as kids races for runners ages 12 and under. The races take place regardless of the weather, so be sure to dress for the occasion!
Both distances start and end at the Ft Vancouver Historic Site near Pearson Airfield in Vancouver. The 12k takes off first at 8am. The 12k course takes runners to the east, with the most significant hill at mile 1.5. After the following downhill, the remaining 5.5 miles are mostly flat along the Columbia River. The 5k course is an out-and-back course, heading west from the start line past Ft Vancouver, over the footbridge across Hwy 14 (which can be icy in the shady parts!), along the Columbia River for a bit and underneath I-5 into downtown Vancouver to the turnaround point one block west of Ester Short Park. If you’re planning to participate in the Vancouver USA Marathon and Half this summer, the 12k course will give you a preview of the VUM course.
I’ve run this race in the past, and have enjoyed it a great deal. Starting procedure is clear and well organized, announcements are easy to understand, and the course is well marked. There usually is a variety of vendors with samples and freebies, and the post-race food and drink is plentiful and tasty.
Ft Vancouver Run details:
When: Sunday, March 6th
Where: Ft Vancouver National Historic Site, 1001 E. 5th Street, Vancouver, WA 98661
What: 5k, 12k, kids races
Registration: Online here
Registration cost: 5k – $40; 12k – $45 (Through Feb 21. Add $5 Feb 22-29. Additional $5 DOR); $18 for participants under 18 years old.
Registration includes: Chip timed race, long sleeve event shirt (not guaranteed after February 22), post-race food and entertainment, beer ticket to redeem at Rock Wood Fire Pizza.
Packet Pickup: Day of race, starting at 7am.
