Race Preview: 2017 Bridge to Brews 8k/10k (Portland)

Ever since I started running while living in Pensacola FL, I have loved running across bridges, especially if they are usually closed to pedestrians. Naturally, Terrapin’s Bridge to Brews race catches my attention, since it is the only Portland race that will take you across the Fremont (I-405) Bridge. This year, the race is scheduled for Sunday, April 9th, and it starts and ends at Waterfront Park in Portland, where street parking is free on Sundays until 1pm. Registration is open! Register now before the price increase on March 21st, or the shirt deadline on March 24th.

The morning starts off with the kids half mile race at 8:10am, then the 8k and 10k start together at 8:40. From Waterfront Park, runners head straight towards the Fremont Bridge (via NW Couch, 8th, and Flanders). There will be a water/aid station at mile 1, just before the on-ramp to the bridge. Crossing the bridge on foot is a fantastic experience! The first half, of course, goes uphill, but you can enjoy views of the city and possibly the mountains (depending on weather). The downhill on the north side is easy and fun, and the second water station will be around mile 3. Shortly after that, there’s a split in the course where the 10k runners add a loop before rejoining the 8k course. The mile southbound on Interstate Ave is sloped downhill, before the incline up onto the Steel Bridge. The final half mile down the ramp off the Steel Bridge allows for a strong and fast finish.

Included in your race registration, is a tasting cup and ten (10) tasting tickets to the brew fest! Several breweries, distilleries, and cider works will offer their products for sampling. Additional tickets will be available for sale, and non-racers can also buy cups/tickets to participate. Other items for purchase include a commemorative pint glass, finisher’s medal, and decals.

Bridge to Brews details:
When: Sunday, April 9th; 8:40am start
Where: Waterfront Park (map)
What: 10k, 8k, kids run
Registration: Online here
Registration cost: $59 until March 21; $69 thereafter; $79 on race weekend.
Registration includes: chip timed race, event shirt, event cup, ten tasting tickets, post-race food and water, instant results.
Packet Pickup: Friday, April 7th, 11am – 7pm and Saturday, April 8th, 10am – 3pm at Road Runner Sports, 29 NW 23rd Place, Portland