Need a relay on your schedule in 2024? Well, then you need the Bend Beer Chase

There’s saying about races in the Pacific Northwest races that if you add beer to a race, people will come. The Bend Beer Chase on May 4, 2024 offers the best of both worlds. This (up to) six-person, one day relay consists of 12 legs of varying distance from 4-8 miles per leg with each runner on the team running at least two legs.

The course starts at 10 Barrel Brewing, travels to Redmond, and finishes back at Drake Park in Bend. Check out the 2024 course to get yourself prepped.

Local breweries host each of the exchange points along the course where participants can sample 3-4oz of craft beer. Every team is required to have a designated driver who is not allowed to sample alcohol during the event.

We have run this event in the past and some positives to say:

Even though it was the final wave of the day, [there was] solid energy and the Cascade Relays and Eclectic Edge timing crews were fantastic.

The beauty of relays is that there are so many options to return and have a completely different running experience. I was happy to put in some of the more challenging legs and the most distance, but as I waited for my teammates at the exchanges, I was super excited to think about how it would feel in future years to cruise into Wild Ride Brewing along the main street in Redmond, take on some Eagle Crest Resort trails, or tackle the Maston Trails. I want those experiences too!

We navigated the final three legs with our fastest three runners, sampled some more beer and cold brewed coffee, and our day finally came to an end as we all joined in to finish. The party was already in full swing, with food and beer choices everywhere, and so many smiles to go around. 

All of the breweries were great along the way. [They] were super happy and energized, even with being out on the course for hours on end. Cascade Relays has modified this race over the first few years of existence, and I think they really put on a great event.

Teams can enjoy a full pint of beer at the end of the event from their favorite brewery and are encouraged to run or walk the Keg Leg – a three-mile loop through downtown Bend. Spend a day outdoors enjoying Bend’s breathtaking views and amazing craft brews at the Bend Beer Chase.

So, if you’re into running and love a good brew, then the Bend Beer Chase is the ultimate combo you don’t want to miss out on! It’s not just a race; it’s a chance to join a fun-loving community, share some laughs, and toast to your accomplishment with a cold one in hand.

Why run the Bend Beer Chase? Because where else can you get your workout in and treat yourself to tasty brews all in one epic day?