As a parent, I can’t think of a charity more deserving than one that raises funds to support child victims of abuse. The 10th annual 2018 Race Against Child Abuse Half Marathon/10k/5k will be on Saturday April 21st this year in St. Helens and all the proceeds directly benefit the Amani Center. This non-profit organization assists Columbia County by using child forensic interviewing, medical assessment, and treatment to kids that have been abused or witnessed violent crimes.
All of the distances are out-and-back course which begin at Columbia View Park. In addition to the half marathon, 10k, and 5k, there is a 1 mile family walk so you can get the whole family out there to support this awesome cause and promote fitness at the same time. Children 14 and under will all receive a participant ribbon (regardless of which race they do) and all half marathoners will get finisher’s medals. All participants registered by April 1st will get a Race Against Child Abuse Neck Band/Wrap as well as a $5 discount if they use code HIGHFIVE when registering.
All the course distances are on asphalt or hard-packed gravel with some hills to be expected for the 10k and half marathon. There will be markers at every mile to keep you on track and 4 aid stations along the way (at the 5k turn around, at 3 miles, 8 miles, and at the finish line.) All are out-and-back style so there are a lot of opportunities to get aid. No bikes or inline skates please.
The half marathon course, which can be viewed here, has over 6 miles of back roads and almost 2,200 feet of elevation gain, but it’s going to be a scenic one. The 10k will take you through downtown St Helens and into Columbia City and you’ll have a short but steep hill you’ll tackle twice. View that map here. The 5k is pretty flat a some “gentle rollers.” That course, which you can view here, takes you through downtown St. Helens as well. The 1 Mile Family Walk Course, in which you are welcome to bring strollers or wagons for, will take you around Old Town. See it here.
Details:
What: 2018 Race Against Child Abuse Half Marathon/10k/5k
When: Saturday, April 21st, 2018 at 8:00AM
Where: Strand Street (Columbia View Park,) St. Helens. It’s across the street from City Hall and adjacent to the Old Court House. View a map here. You can park anywhere near Columbia View Park. Here’s a map with parking noted.
Register: Here
Registration Cost: 1 Mile Walk is $30, 5k is $50, 10k is $60, and Half Marathon is $70. Use code HIGHFIVE thru April 1st for $5 off, and check out their facebook page for other weekly discount codes. Register by April 1st to ensure getting a Race Against Child Abuse neck band/wrap and a discounted rate on registration.
Packet Pick-Up: Northlake Physical Therapy (21 Cowlitz St) in Old Town St Helens on Friday April 20th (time TBD.)
If you are looking for something a little different, there’s the Earth Day Run 10k/5k in Neskowin on Sunday, April 22nd. This event has the option of a 5k Road Run/Walk or a 5k Trail race. There’s also a 10k Road & Trail race for an extra challenge. This race benefits the Neskowin Valley School and the funds from the race will go to the school’s tuition scholarships program.
The course for this race is guaranteed to be beautiful and there’s a finisher beer waiting for those 21 and and over. There will also be live entertainment and food included. It’s the inaugural year for this race, so come be the first to see what it’s all about.
Details:
What: 2018 Earth Day Run 10k/5k
When: Sunday, April 22nd, 2018 at 11:00AM
Where: 10005 Slab Creek Road, Neskowin
Register: Here
Registration Cost: $30
