https://foottraffic.us/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/RaceStart.jpg
After six years running the Foot Traffic Flat on Sauvie Island, I can tell you that the hardest part, by far, is obeying that alarm clock at 4 in the morning. To beat the potential 4th of July heat, wise race directors schedule the events to start early. And to beat the traffic, my shoes have to be on and out the door before the sun is in the sky. Once I am in route, I know the rest will be easy (well, as easy as a race ever is).
The Foot Traffic Flat has become an annual summer tradition for me because the experience is so much more than just a run. I usually sign up for the half marathon, which provides participants a fun loop around the island with just three small hills to climb along the way. All events start and end at The Pumpkin Patch, so I usually start my morning by visiting with a few of the animals at the farm. After the races three is hot dogs, veggie dogs, strawberry shortcake, and music to enjoy. I haven’t needed one yet, but the staff also put out cold wading pools to soak toasty feet (or some of the kids just dive in all the way).
All participants receive a tech-shirt (this year’s is a super cute word cloud in the shape of a strawberry), an extra-large medal, and great volunteer support throughout the event. Plus, a new bonus this year is a strawberry-themed aid station along each course. I am so excited for a strawberry marshmallow and some strawberry lemonade.
So if you are brave enough for a 4am alarm clock (or live way closer to Sauvie Island than I do), check out this fun event for your summer running.
https://foottraffic.us/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/elevation-300×158.jpg
Foot Traffic Flat (Sauvie Island)
When: Wednesday, July 4th
• Full Marathon: 6:30am • 10K and 5k: 6:50am
• Half Marathon: 7am • Kids 1K: 9am (tentatively)
Where: The Pumpkin Patch on Sauvie Island (16511 NW Gillihan Road)
Register: Online
Packet Pick-Up:
• Saturday, June 30th at Foot Traffic NE (4020 NE Fremont St.) from 11-6 pm
• Sunday, July 1st at Foot Traffic West (13306 NW Cornell Rd.) from 11-5 pm
• Monday, July 2nd at Foot Traffic SE (7718 SE 13th Ave.) from 12-7 pm
• Tuesday, July 3rd at Foot Traffic Downtown (SW 3rd and Taylor) from 10-3 pm
Cost: • Full Marathon: $92 • Half Marathon: $77 • 10K: $55 • 5K: $39 • Kids 1K: $15
https://foottraffic.us/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/Strawberry-station-flat-website-2018.jpg
