The 2018 Banks Linear Trail Brave is set for Saturday, May 19th
If you like supporting well-organized, low-key, local races that support a good cause, one of the best ones around is the Banks Linear Trail Brave Run, coming up this year on Saturday, May 19th. As the name implies, the event takes place in Banks, and the out-and-back course includes a stretch on the Banks-Vernonia State Trail, a paved rails to trails path. The 8th annual event includes a 5k and a 10k, and is a fundraiser for Banks Elementary School’s technology fund. Over the years, the race has financed everything from overhead projectors to software updates.
Both the 5k and 10k start on the Banks High School track, head through town on the main street, and cruise along the Banks-Vernonia trail before reaching their respective turnarounds and coming back the way they came. Both races are virtually hill-free and fast, although if you’re like me you may find the long views down the trail a bit of a mental challenge, as rails to trails straightaways seem to exaggerate distance for me.
Nice touches in the past have included a free one-lap kids’ run, ceremonial souvenir bib numbers hand colored by Banks Elementary students, and pineapples awarded to age group winners. Vendors, sponsors, and refreshment tents dot the football field, friendly announcers keep participants informed, the volunteers are great, and chances are if you have run this race before, you will be recognized by the race directors and thanked for returning!
Animals are the theme for this year’s costume contest!
To add to the fun family atmosphere, there is also a costume contest, paired with the 2018 race theme ”Running Wild on the Linear Trail for Kids and Technology”. Costume categories include:
- Group – family or mixed male/female
- Female and Male Adult Individual
- Female and Male Kids Individual
You can register for the costume contest on race morning. Wear your best wild animal attire!
This is a great example of an independent local race done well. Highly recommended!
What: The 8th Annual Banks Linear Trail Brave Run
When: Saturday, May 19th
Where: Banks High School track
What time:
8:30a – Free Kids’ Dash
9:00a – 5K and 10K run and walk
Register: $20 through May 15th ($10 for Banks School District employees). T-shirts are available with online registration through April 26th. Day of race registration will be available for an additional $10. You can register online HERE. Early packet pickup will be available on Friday, May 18th from 4:00-7:00p in the Banks Elementary School cafeteria. Race day pickup is also available.
