When I travel, I always try to hunt down a local running store. They’re the best place to get the lay of the land, grab some last-minute gear, and soak in the local running vibe. Here in Portland, we’re lucky: there are a handful of solid options. But for many, the cream of the crop has long been Portland Running Company (PRC)—and this year, they’re celebrating a milestone: 30 years in the game.
Three Decades of PRC
Owners Dave and Paula Harkin have been fixtures in the Portland running scene for three decades. Through PRC, they’ve done more than just sell shoes—they’ve helped shape Portland into one of the country’s crown-jewel running cities. Their leadership, energy, and passion for community have fueled both the growth of the store and the thriving culture around it.
The Stores
At its heart, PRC is a running store. Their two locations—Beaverton and Northwest Portland—are stocked with the latest shoes, apparel, and all the small (and not-so-small) things runners need…including some you didn’t know you needed until you walk out with them.
But PRC has always gone well beyond just being a retail shop.
The Race Team
If you’ve run an Oregon race, you’ve seen the blue PRC kits flying by. The Portland Running Company Race Team brings together runners of all levels—yes, they’re fast, but they’re also about representing the sport and building community. Whether you’re chasing PRs or just chasing the sunrise, you’re welcome to lace up in PRC blue.
- Voted Best Running Club in the Pacific Northwest by readers of Competitor Magazine
- Membership: $55 with a jersey / $45 without
- Open to all, with registration online or in-store
Group Runs
Even if you aren’t on the PRC Team, you can join in on weekly group runs in Portland & Beaverton.
PRC’s group runs are a cornerstone of the community—welcoming, fun, and open to all paces. Here’s the lineup:
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Mondays, 5:30 PM – Scholls PRC Slow Jam (Beaverton)
Easy 4–7 miles through Greenway Park and the surrounding neighborhoods. A relaxed start to the week on some of Beaverton’s best paths. -
Mondays, 6:00 PM – PRC-NW Trail Run (2258 NW Raleigh St.)
In partnership with No Name Trail Club. Evening trail miles in Forest Park (5–9 miles), followed by refreshments at the Run Pub. -
Tuesdays, 6:30 PM – Duniway Track
Meet at 6:15 for warm-up, then hit the oval for a free weekly interval workout. Sessions run 60–75 minutes with workouts posted weekly on PRC’s Facebook page. -
Thursdays, 6:00 PM – Thirsty Thursday at PRC-NW (2258 NW Raleigh St.)
5–7 miles followed by a discounted first round at the in-house Run Pub. Vendor visits often include demos, giveaways, and product testing. PRC’s most popular group run. -
Sundays, 8:00 AM – Long Run from PRC-NW (2258 NW Raleigh St.)
Weekly long run covering 5–18 miles, often in Forest Park or along the waterfront. All paces welcome. Many stick around afterward for coffee and conversation.
Run With Paula Events
Of course, you can’t talk PRC without mentioning Run with Paula Events. Paula herself directs about eight races each year—beloved fixtures that we’ve covered often here at Run Oregon. Her races are welcoming, well-organized, and infused with Paula’s infectious energy.
- Winter 5K Series — seasonal 5K races over winter
- Tualatin River Run — 5K event, fast & flat, with scenery
- Hippie Chick! — an all-women’s race, held Mother’s Day weekend
- Helvetia Half Marathon (also 5K & 10K) — scenic course through Washington County, includes challenging hills and countryside views
- Starlight Run — fun run (~2.6 mi), tied to the Portland Rose Festival parade route, warm-up prior to the parade
- Independence Day Race — Fourth of July race; includes Half Marathon, 5K, 10K options
- Beaverton Half Marathon (also 5K & 10K) — Flat September race, explores some famed Beaverton paved trails
- West Linn Turkey Trot — Thanksgiving Day, family‐oriented trail race (~3.8 miles) in Mary S. Young Park
The Run Pub
One of PRC’s most fun twists is their Run Pub, tucked inside the NW Portland shop. On paper, it’s a taphouse inside a running store (already cool). In practice, it’s a full runner’s hangout. Stop by for some lunch shopping, or after a long run, and grab a pint. You can even earn discounts on beer just by logging your miles:
- Join PRC’s Strava group
- Earn 5¢ per mile
- Every 100 miles = $5 off a pint
It’s a brilliant way to celebrate the miles while enjoying the community.
Celebrate 30 Years
PRC has been supporting runners for three decades—it’s the perfect time to return the favor. If you’ve never stopped by, now’s the moment. If you’re already a regular, swing in and give them a hearty congrats. Supporting local is huge, and PRC has been supporting us for 30 years strong.
They’ll be rolling out special deals and events next month to celebrate. Keep an eye out, and make sure you join in on the festivities!
