Race Recap: ORRC Champoeg 10K

All week I was apprehensive about the crazy wet weekend weather I was going to have to run in at the ORRC Champoeg 10K. But, Saturday morning was surprisingly dry and warm for early March. Since the 20K and 30K runs started first, the 10K run didn't start until 10:30. After sleeping in and enjoying a leisurely morning, I headed to Champoeg Park. When I arrived, there were many runners on the road headed out on one of their many laps of the 5K loop. The parking lots were full so I had to park in the overflow area which was in a field. I was a little surprised that I had to pay the $5 parking fee at Champoeg Park, since in the past it was part of the race fee, but fortunately I did have cash with me.

As I walked to the check-in area, I noticed many kids that had just finished the kids run with their medals, beanies, and goodie bags that were shaped like carrots. They all seemed to be quite pleased with their haul. I checked in quickly and easily. After picking up my race bib, I grabbed a bright orange beanie and picked up my shirt. There seemed to be some issues with the men’s shirts not being available yet, so they were taking names of those who needed to have their shirts mailed to them. The women’s shirts are great! Good fit, great material for running in, and good color!  Thumbs up to the RD for that choice.

By 10K race time it was already about 60 degrees. I took off my long sleeved shirt and wrapped it around my waist before the start. Despite wearing short sleeves and capris, I felt overdressed not long into the run. It’s amazing how hot 60 degrees feels when you’ve gotten used to running in much cooler winter temperatures. The course had been changed from a 10K loop to two 5K laps due to a closure on the park trails. That was kind of a bummer that mentally made the course feel a bit longer, but I was thankful I was only running 2 loops, unlike the 20K and 30K runners who had 4-6 loops to run! Despite the multiple loops, running in Champoeg Park is always pleasant. I enjoyed the scenery, being able to see runners going in multiple directions as you loop past each other, watching the frisbee golfers and others out enjoying what the park has to offer, etc.

When I run a race solo, I like listening to the chatter around me. There was definitely plenty at this race. The atmosphere was energizing. Even the volunteers on the course (and off) were positive and cheerful. I appreciated their enthusiasm in cheering the runners as we passed by multiple times. Overall, it made for a great day to be running in the park.

Despite the fact that I was only running the 10K, the warm day made this a more challenging run for me. I usually forego the aid stations on a 10K run, but by the time I reached the aid station at around mile 4+, I needed water badly. A quick sip of the wonderfully cool water and I was re-energized. However, I was still looking forward to the finish. It was a tougher race for me than I expected, but I was so glad I ran it.

Afterwards there was plenty of soup and other snacks available. The water jugs were running low by the time I finished, but I did get some water. Before I left bought a cute lightweight race hoodie for just $10. Who can resist a bargain like that?

If you haven’t participated in the Champoeg Park runs, I recommend you put it on your list for next year. It’s a great place to run and the ORRC races always seem to have great volunteers and a good event overall.