Race Preview: 2019 Cook Park Marathon/Half (Tigard)

The 4th of July weekend means plenty of holiday races, but did you know the Cook Park Marathon/Half is on the 5th of July? This is the 2nd in a series of 4 races over the 4th of July weekend called the Firecracker Quadzilla/Quadzuki.   It can be run as part of the series or as an independent event. The Cook Park Marathon and Half Marathon is 4.37 mile loop in that is in both Cook Park and Durham City Park. Marathon runners will complete the loop 6 times, while half marathon runners will complete 3 loops.

The course runs along the scenic Tualatin River for a portion of the race and is a combination of paved trails and a few dirt trails. There will be a fully stocked aid station at the start/finish area that runners will pass by on each loop with water, Gatorade, and a variety of sweet and salty snacks. The loop course gives participants the option of leaving their own choice of hydration/nutrition in this area, as well.

If participants need longer than 5 hours to finish the full marathon, there is an early start option. Details regarding this option are on the website. The race is capped at 100 participants with at least 25 spots reserved for each distance, so be sure to sign up before race day to ensure you have a spot.

This is a chip-timed event, so you don’t have to worry about counting your laps. Although, it is a good idea to check in with the timer as you pass by to make sure you don’t lose count and run a few extra!  All finishers will receive a finisher medal and there will be awards for the top male and female finishers for each distance.

While I haven’t run this particular race, I did participate in one of the smaller 4th of July weekend loop runs last year. I wasn’t sure that I would like running loops, but I really enjoyed it! The small race atmosphere was great and the camaraderie of passing by other runners coming and going multiple times made you really feel like you were part of a group of runners – regardless of your pace. If you have the 5th of July available, I recommend you put this one on your agenda for the  holiday weekend.

 

 

Cook Park Marathon/Half Details

Date: Friday, July 5

Time: 7:00 A.M.

Location: Cook Park, 17005 SW 92nd Ave, Tigard

Entry Fees:

• $65 – Marathon
• $60 – Half Marathon

Race Website: Click Here