Race Preview: 2016 Uberthons Scrub Run Derby (5K and 1 mile)

Supposedly, the ultramarathon race originated as an idea about a human versus horse race. In a short distance, of course, we bipedals would have zero chance against a horse, and the Scrub Run Derby is not that kind of race. However, it is the race for you if you've ever wondered what it would be like to run on a horseracing track - specifically, the one at Portland Meadows. That means this is about the easiest 5K race course there is to describe (apart from a track 5000 meter race). It's three times around the 1-mile horseracing track, starting on the outermost lap, and moving inward each additional mile. There will also be a 1 mile race, which will be - you guessed it - one time around the track. But wait, there's more!

Why is this race called the Scrub Run? The answer is that it’s a partnership with the Medical Society of Metropolitan Portland (MSMP), and the post-race festivities include a meal and a performance by the winner of the Annual Battle of the Doctor Bands.

And if you are really fast, you have a chance to win one of the cash prizes – $125 each for the male and female winners of the 5K and 1 mile races, and $500 for the winner of the 5K team race.

The entry fee covers the chip timing bib, finisher’s medal, meal, and concert. A special race shirt is available for $10, which helps support Dollar for Portland. There’s also a request to benefit Doernbecher Children’s Hospital by bringing an item on the kids’ wish list.

 

Scrub Run Derby

When: Saturday, August 20, 2016, at 9:00 a.m.

Where: Portland Meadows, 1001 N. Schmeer Road, Portland, Oregon

Register: Online here ($35 for 5K; $30 for 1 mile race; each will also include a small processing fee)

Pre-race packet pickup: Thursday, August 18, 2016, from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m., at Big Al’s, 14950 SW Barrows Road, Beaverton