If you want to participate in the Deschutes Dash in Bend on July 14th, you’ll have a long list of events to choose from: Not only can participants run the 5k or 10k race, there are also Sprint and Olympic distance triathlons, as well as duathlons (run-bike-run) and aquabike (swim-bike) races. The main event area is Bend’s beautiful Riverbend Park, which is the start and finish area for all races (except the swim), and it is the transition area for the multisport events.
While there are many different races, the courses for the events are very straightforward. The swim portion for the triathlons and aquabike race is just 700m long, and it is a downstream float down the Deschutes from Farewell Bend Park to Riverbend Park. Wetsuits are highly recommended, since average water temperatures in July are 63*F. The bike races are out-and-back on paved roads from Riverbend Park heading west on Century Drive towards Mt Bachelor, which means that the first half of the ride is uphill, the second half is downhill. The 5k is a loop course with the first half running on a path along the river. The 10k is the same loop with an added out and back.
The races start as early as 8am and as late as 9:05. Refer to the schedule posted here to be sure you know your start time. Please also closely read the race instructions; they contain important information about the race and its safety rules.
Deschutes Dash details:
When: Saturday, July 14
Where: Riverbend Park, Bend (map)
What: 5k, 10k; sprint/olympic triathlon, duathlon, and aquabike; relays
Registration: online here
Registration includes: race entry, finisher’s medal, awards, post-race food and drink
Packet Pickup: Princess Athletics, 945 NW Wall Street, Bend OR, Thursday, July 12 and Friday July 13, 2-6pm.
